Port Blair Nov 3: Amid mounting public outcry over rampant illegal liquor sales and growing drug abuse across the Islands, Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has urged the Administration to launch a crackdown on the unlawful trade and ensure accountability within the enforcement machinery.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the Lt. Governor, the MP demanded “immediate and stringent action” to curb the mushrooming sale of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) through unauthorized shops, gumties, and other illicit outlets. Copies of the letter have also been forwarded to the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, underlining the seriousness of the issue.
During his visit to Rangat on October 27, 2025, following the devastating fire that left several families homeless, Ray said residents raised serious allegations of police inaction in curbing the illegal liquor trade in the area. He noted that unchecked liquor sales and growing substance abuse among youth were fast becoming a social crisis.
Highlighting that the menace extends far beyond Rangat—to areas including Dairy Farm, Haddo, Delanipur, Aberdeen, Pahargaon, Pathergudda, Austinabad, Mayabunder, Diglipur, and Little Andaman– Ray expressed deep concern over what he termed “widespread and unchecked violations thriving under official apathy.”
In his representation, the MP cited several key issues:
Unlicensed liquor sales allegedly operating under police protection or due to inaction.
Inadequate patrolling and suspected illegal collections by some officials.
Rising cases of youth addiction and substance abuse.
Misuse of ANIIDCO outlets, with bulk liquor purchases reportedly diverted to unauthorized vendors.
Calling the situation “alarming and socially corrosive,” Ray pressed for stern enforcement drives, awareness campaigns against substance abuse, and a comprehensive review of police postings to ensure transparency and public trust.
He also reminded that the matter was earlier raised during the District Planning Committee meeting of North & Middle Andaman, where officials had assured action—but tangible results remain elusive.
“As a moral responsibility and in the interest of safeguarding our youth, parents, and women, I urge the Administration to act decisively to maintain peace and harmony in our Islands,” the MP stated in a press release.
