Take steps to end illicit liquor menace: Union Minister

Kolar Gold Fields, Karnataka, May 22 (UNI) Union Minister of State for Surface Transport K H Muniyapa today appealed to Karnataka Government to take steps to permanently end the 'illicit liquor' menace which has claimed 137 lives since May 18 in the State.

Speaking at a press conference, he termed as 'most unfortunate' the tragedy that struck Kolar and Bangalore rural and urban Districts.

Mr Muniyappa said that he has spoken to the Governor Rameshwar Thakur over the steps to be taken to permanently solve the menace and the Governor has assured him that he would consider some of the suggestions made by him(Minister).

He said that he had appealed to the Governor to take steps to take care of the education and other needs of children who have lost their parents in the tragedy.

The Union Minister further called upon the authorities to deal with iron hand and bring to book all those involved in the hooch business. He said simultaneously awareness should be created among the rural mass over the ill effects of drinking. He called upon the authorities to make use of NGOs and Adult Education Committees for the purpose.

UNI XR MSP GM2059