GUWAHATI, March 15 - Excise Minister Parimal Shuklabaidya met Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi at Raj Bhavan here today and apprised him of a sequel of measures that the excise department has undertaken in the aftermath of the recent hooch tragedy that took several precious lives in upper Assam.
The Excise Minister said since sulai, a local intoxicating liquor is responsible for claiming so many lives, a widespread campaign has been launched throughout the State to create an awareness against consumption of that stuff so that the department can empower people to prevent recurrence of such tragedy.
The Governor asked Shuklabaidya to initiate awareness campaigns at all levels, especially in the tea garden areas to empower people and create a deterrent to work against brewing such spurious liquor.
Governor Mukhi also said that the State Anti-Drug and Prohibition Council must be reactivated to vigorously spread its awareness activities across the State and highlight the evil effects of liquor consumption. He also stated that since not only sulai but other intoxicating liquors also take a toll on human health, awareness drives should be initiated to motivate people to gradually abstain from intoxicating liquors.
The Governor also emphasised the urgent need to educate the people especially those living in tea gardens and their surrounding areas and spread awareness about the adverse impacts of sulai and other intoxicating liquors on health. He also asked Shuklabaidya to tag in various organisations like religious groups and NGOs for awareness purpose and highlight the evil effects of liquor consumption.
Prof Mukhi also emphasised initiating debates and symposia at educational institutions and motivational campaigns at public places such as markets, bus stops and other places where assembly of people happens.
Commissioner and Secretary Excise Ranjana Boruah; Commissioner Excise Rakesh Kumar and Additional Commissioner of Excise Sanjiv Medhi were present during the meeting.
