A trend which started a few years back, a women wing of East Siang with the assistance of the district administration had launched a ‘dry period’ during the year ending festive phase; and the result was the heralding of an ‘accident-free’ New Year as opposed to previous years which had witnessed spike in road mishaps as a result of driving under the influence. This year too the ban is in place to help people ring in a ‘safe’ new year. 

Alcohol addiction has resulted in growing incidences of domestic violence causing children much harm in such environment. Moreover, youths under the influence of alcohol have gone wayward; being involved in road accidentsor in other anti-social activities. 

With the onset of the festive season, across Arunachal alcohol sale will witness a huge spike and unfortunately cases of road accidents due to drunken driving also sees a jump.

Festivities and the party season which in Arunachal especially revolves around the year end and the beginning of another brand new year, relies heavily on alcoholic beverages to set the mood. Therefore, the administration’s move is quite bold and for the women wings spearheading the fight it is a huge accomplishment. 

Across Arunachal frontal women wings are fighting against drugs and alcoholism. The women activists of various districts have to be commended for their grit and determination as they have managed to keep the tempo despite the immense challenges and being the target of hostility on several occasions. 

These women who understandably are working for the good of society must also be careful as their actions are also being perceived as infringement of individual freedom. But what needs to be done has to be done and in their effort these women are also at the receiving end. If one recalls the anonymous threat letter issued to Women Against Social Evils recently. 

Truth is dry days or not, safety should be everyone’s concern. In the first place the administration or women activists had no business to even enforce such a ban, had citizens been more cautious about their and others safety.

 

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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