Women protest demanding relocation of Tasmac outlet in Pochampally

Krishnagiri: Tensions flared in Pochampalli town on Monday, when more than 50 women blocked a road demanding the removal of a govt-run Tasmac liquor outlet on the Pochampally–Sandur Road.Residents objected to the outlet which has been operating for more than a decade on the busy stretch, due to its proximity to residential houses, temples, markets and commercial establishments. “We have been pressing for its closure for the past three years, staging frequent protests and submitting petitions to officials, but no action has been taken yet,” said M Madheswari, a protester.With the Tamil Nadu govt recently ordering the closure of 717 Tasmac outlets across the state, villagers have renewed their demand that the Pochampalli outlet also be shut down. Two weeks ago, locals had staged a similar road blockade, but no efforts were taken to address their concerns, forcing women to gather again in front of the shop and intensify their protest.A police team led by Bargur DSP Dhanasekar and Pochampally inspector Gopalakrishnan intervened and held talks with the agitators. The women dispersed peacefully after authorities assured them that appropriate steps would soon be initiated to remove the shop.