Govt responsible for liquor-related violence against women:

Social activist Medha Patkar today said the government is "responsible" for liquor and drugs-related violence against women in society.

"The government is responsible for the liquor and drugs-related violence against women. After independence, this is for the first time in the country that women are taking to streets for enforcement of liquor ban," Patkar said in her valedictory address at a seminar on 'nasha bandi' under the 'Nasha-Mukt Bharat Andolan', a nationwide campaign.

Around 1500 representatives from 18 states took part in the seminar held here today.

In her presidential address, Patkar appealed to women to pursue their struggle until stricter laws are framed for banning liquor across country.
 

In his address, activist Swami Agnivesh said that domestic violence and accidents are on the rise due to consumption of alcohol.

"Our mothers and sisters are taking to streets demanding a ban on liquor. I appeal you to hold a peaceful and democratic agitation on this issue," he said.

'Nasha Mukt Bharat Andolan's national convener Sunilam said that the government should frame stricter rules for prohibition on lines of Bihar and "should punish alcohol vendors as well as people who consume alcohol."

He said 'Nasha Mukti' drive would be conducted on December 6, the death anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar.

"The Prime Minister could appeal to people of the country and tell them about the bad effects of alcohol through his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme," he said.