Villagers lock up relocated liquor shop in Puducherry

A large group of residents locked up a liquor shop in Ramanthapuram village near here in protest against its relocation from a highway.
Protesters urged the territorial government to take steps to shut the shop, which was shifted to the village, following implementation of the Supreme Court order to close liquor outlets and bars situated along the highways.
They contended that the shop would be a hindrance and nuisance to the public, especially the devotees visiting a temple in the locality.
They also warned of intensifying their agitation if the government failed to heed to their demands.
On receiving information, police reached the spot and pacified the agitators, who dispersed following assurance that the matter would be taken up with the Excise authorities.