Assam: Rangia students protest against alleged liquor shops near College, demand immediate closure

Tensions are mounting in Rangia as student bodies and local residents express outrage over the establishment of two wine-on-shops situated just 110 meters from the historic Rangia College.

Students, faculty members, and concerned citizens have condemned the move, accusing the government and local administration of prioritizing commercial interests over academic integrity.

According to student leaders, the presence of liquor shops in such close proximity to the institution—one that serves over a thousand students—has severely disrupted the educational atmosphere. By evening, the area reportedly transforms into a hub for alcohol consumption, creating an unsafe and distracting environment for students.

"The college has been a center of academic excellence for decades. Setting up liquor shops barely a hundred meters away shows utter disregard for the sanctity of this institution," said a representative of the Rangiya College Students' Union.

The Rangia Regional Students' Union and the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) unit of the college have joined the protest, stating that the decision threatens both the safety and moral fabric of the student community. They have jointly submitted a memorandum demanding the immediate closure of the shops.

"The government must revoke these licenses at once. If the liquor shops are not shut down immediately, we will be compelled to launch a strong, democratic movement," warned an AASU member.

It needs mentioned here that in Guwahati, Assam, an IMFL "ON" shop (where liquor is consumed on-site) is generally allowed within a distance of 100 meters from educational institutions, places of public worship, or hospitals.