Meghalaya to crackdown on illegal bars

Shillong, Jun 14 (UNI) The Meghalaya government has warned of crackdown on all illegal bars, holding them responsible for the increasing anti-social activities in different parts of the city.

The warning came in response to the complaints from various quarters that the thriving illegal liquor dens had spawned criminal activities in the city.

A good number of unlicensed bars had reportedly been doing brisk business at Polo Market, Iew Mawlong, Dreamland Point, Jhalupara and other places.

Interestingly, most of these liquor outlets under the garb of restaurant also sell Chinese or Tibetan delicacies.

'' We have received complaints about the illegal bars in the city but any action against them depends on proper verification by SMB, '' Urban Affairs Minister Paul Lyngdoh said.

Mr Lyngdoh warned that the government would not hesitate to use force against those involved in such illegal activities.

'' It is surprising that illegal bars are flourishing under the nose of law-enforcing agencies. The Excise Department has to look seriously into the matter, '' Mr Lyngdoh said.

Recently, a women's organisation lodged a complaint that law and order in the city was disturbed due to the presence of illegal bars.

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