Hundreds of women, accompanied by 50 youths, carried out a march from Yavatmal to the Nagpur residence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding ban on liquor in the district.
The women, who are affiliated to an NGO, Swamini Mahila Daru Bandi Abhiyan, were led by their convener Mahesh Pawar, besides 50 youths, who joined them to express their solidarity with the cause.
"Fifty youths have tonsured their heads and joined the 500-strong women and marched to Nagpur on Gandhi Jayanti to meet the Chief Minister and demand total ban on liquor in Yavatmal," Mahesh Pawar said.
Despite being stopped by the police on their way, some of them managed to reach the Chief Minister's residence and shouted slogans in front of the gate.
"We want Yavatmal (to be) liquor free like the neighbouring districts of Wardha, Gadchiroli and Chandrapur," Pawar said, adding that they would intensify their agitation if the government turns a blind eye to their demand.
Sixteen rallies have so far been organized for the cause. The recently held youth rally was attended by over 15,000 young men and women, he added.
