Protest against another liquor store opening held in Jaffna

A protest was held in Jaffna on Monday to voice opposition against the opening of a liquor store in the area, as reports of alcoholism continues to plague the Tamil homeland.

The demonstration, organized by the Jaffna North Civil Society Association, took place in front of the Thellipalai Divisional Secretariat. Protesters expressed concerns about the negative impact of the liquor store on the local community, and a formal document outlining these concerns was submitted to the Divisional Secretary.

In Mannar last week, a group of Tamils, including elders, women, and men, protested against the opening of another liquor store. Despite strong objections from both the local population and religious leaders, authorities went ahead with granting the license to the store.

The protests underscore a broader resistance within the North-East against the normalization of alcohol sales, especially near youth centres, schools, and places of worship. Local communities have been clear in their stance, and despite initial promises from authorities to address these concerns, little progress has been made, leading to a rise in frustration and continued protests.

The community remains firm in its opposition, fearing that the presence of such establishments will have detrimental effects.

The Tamil homeland remains under military occupation, with locals stating that issues such as unemployment, alcoholism and drug use have grown under the Sri Lankan security forces.