Tribal bodies oppose liquor outlet in Assam’s Rajapara, warn of mass agitation

The proposed opening of a liquor outlet at Rajapara under the Boko–Chhaygaon co-district has sparked sharp reactions from several tribal and community organizations, who have termed the move “anti-people” and "socially harmful".

 

Rajapara, known for its predominantly tribal population, has witnessed growing unrest over the alleged preparations for granting a license to a liquor vendor in the area. Local organizations argue that such a decision would negatively impact the social fabric of the community and undermine ongoing efforts toward social upliftment.

 

A joint memorandum has been submitted to the Boko–Chhaygaon Co-District Commissioner by multiple organizations, including the All Rabha Students’ Union (ARSU), the Gorkha Students’ Union, the Rabha Women’s Council, the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee, and the Gorkha Women’s Council. The groups have demanded the immediate cancellation of the proposed outlet and warned that failure to comply would result in strong democratic protests.

 

Arbinda Rabha, Assistant Secretary of Kamrup District ARSU, alleged that the government’s intent behind opening liquor outlets in sensitive tribal areas is primarily revenue-driven. He cautioned that if the authorities proceed despite public opposition, the responsibility for any law-and-order situation would rest with the local administration, the excise department, and the government.

 

Rabha further recalled that in 2022, a similar attempt was made to open a liquor outlet in Rajapara. At that time, residents had lodged written objections with the Boko Revenue Circle Office, following which the proposal was reportedly shelved. He claimed that despite clear resistance from the community, the government is once again attempting to revive the controversial plan.

 

Taking strong exception to the state’s revenue policies, Rabha argued that the authorities should instead focus on regulating alleged illegal activities that cause significant revenue loss. He pointed to coal-laden trucks entering Assam daily from Meghalaya without proper documentation and often carrying overloaded consignments. He also cited the alleged illegal transportation of sand from Goalpara and Kamrup districts to Guwahati. According to him, stricter enforcement in these sectors would generate substantial revenue without disturbing socially sensitive tribal regions.

 

The protesting organizations maintain that the opening of a liquor outlet in Rajapara would have long-term adverse effects, particularly on youth and vulnerable sections of society. They have reiterated that they will intensify their movement if the administration does not reconsider its decision.