Breaking: Garudiya Village Imposes Rs 25,000 Fine for Drinking

Garudiya Village Takes a Stand Against Alcohol Consumption In a bold move aimed at combating alcohol abuse, **Garudiya village** in **Gujarat**, known for its tribal population, has recently adopted a resolution that completely bans the consumption and sale of liquor. The **gram panchayat**, representing a community of almost **1,500 residents**, passed this significant measure on **Thursday** to promote a healthier lifestyle among villagers.

This resolution not only prohibits the sale of both Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and country-brewed alcohol but also imposes hefty penalties for violators. As part of this initiative, the village has established a Dekh Rekh (supervision) committee to monitor liquor-related activities, ensuring community adherence to the new rules.

Heavy Penalties for Violators The village sarpanch **K M Kamri** led the initiative, proposing the ban during a panchayat meeting that received unanimous support. The resolution outlines strict penalties for those caught violating the ban: - A fine of **Rs 25,000** for anyone found drunk - A **police case** will be filed against the offender - No village member will assist the accused in obtaining bail - A **Rs 10,000 reward** for informants who report liquor sales or consumption - **Social ostracism** for families of repeat offenders, preventing them from participating in social and religious events

With these measures, the village aims to deter alcohol consumption, a prevalent issue among its residents. The resolution is particularly significant given the village's proximity to Maharashtra, a state where alcohol is legal, leading to cross-border drinking habits.

Community Support and Purpose Behind the Ban Sarpanch Kamri expressed deep concerns over the alcohol-related deaths in the community, stating, "**Many people have died due to liquor consumption.** In our village, both men and women consume liquor and even offer it during funerals, weddings, and religious events." This cultural practice has contributed to the urgency of the resolution.

The village's primary income source is agriculture, but the prevalence of alcohol consumption has posed a serious threat to the well-being of its residents. Kamri emphasized that the imposed fine of Rs 25,000 is substantial for many tribal families, instilling fear of repercussions that could lead to behavioral changes.

Police Support and Community Impact **H B Patel**, Inspector at Subir Police Station, acknowledged the rampant liquor consumption in Dang, mentioning that the police file **8 to 10 prohibition cases** in Garudiya each year. He praised the village's initiative, stating that it reflects a proactive approach to the alcohol problem in the community.

Patel noted, "When our team arrives for raids, the liquor is nowhere to be found," indicating that the new community measures could prove effective in addressing the issue. The police's backing enhances the resolution's credibility and reinforces the importance of cooperative efforts between law enforcement and local governance.

Moving Forward: What’s Next for Garudiya Village? As Garudiya village embarks on this alcohol-free journey, several points will be crucial to monitor: - The effectiveness of the **Dekh Rekh committee** in enforcing the ban - Compliance among residents and the overall impact on community health - Changes in social dynamics due to the penalties and ostracism

The village's commitment to creating a liquor-free environment may serve as a model for other communities grappling with similar issues. By fostering a culture of accountability and support, Garudiya is taking significant steps toward improving the quality of life for its residents.

This resolution is more than just a ban; it represents a collective stand against the negative impacts of alcohol. As Gujarat continues to uphold strict prohibition laws, the success of Garudiya's initiative could inspire further action across the state, leading to healthier, alcohol-free communities.

Why It Matters The decision made by Garudiya village highlights a grassroots approach to public health and community well-being. It emphasizes the power of local governance in tackling societal issues and showcases how collective action can lead to transformative change. As other regions observe the outcomes of this resolution, it could pave the way for similar initiatives in **tribal and rural areas** nationwide, aiming to combat alcohol dependency and its dire consequences.