Chennai: Relief and hope reflected on the faces of women bearing the brunt of alcoholism after the state government shut down a substantial number of liquor shops as part of introduction of total prohibition in phases.
Although women’s leaders, activists and even ordinary homemakers welcomed the government’s move closing down 58 outlets in Chennai region last week, they feel it is not going to make a big difference in their lives as liquor is available in every corner of the city. As far as they are concerned, alcohol should be blamed for the huge rise in domestic violence and road accidents, which rendered many of them, widows. So most of these city women demand total prohibition.
Many women contacted by DC described in detail how alcohol is ruining their lives. Health issues and family discords have started climbing new heights and women and children have to bear the brunt of it. “The new timings is giving more trouble to my family.
Earlier, my husband waited till 10 in the morning to drink. But these days, it is available in black market at any time and he starts drinking at 7 am itself”, says Jamuna, representing a group of women from Kanniyamman Nagar near Avadi.
Sujata Mody, president of Penn Thozhilaragal Sangam, said although the shutting down of a few liquor outlets will not make any difference for drunkards, it gives hope for all those fighting for total prohibition. A housewife from SAF Games Village, Koyambedu said her husband spends around Rs 30,000 on liquor per month. Total prohibition is the only solution to this alcohol menace", says Chamundeswari, member of Costal Women's Network, Ennore.
