Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Found Himself in Controversy over Liquor Shop Hours
Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma faced a public backlash after announcing that wine shops would be allowed to operate until 2 AM, only to retract his statement soon after. The initial announcement was made during a press conference in Dibrugarh, following a cabinet meeting, where Sarma detailed the state’s decision to permit 24/7 operations for shops and establishments in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar municipal areas.
According to the new policy, businesses along state highways in municipal zones can stay open until 2 AM, while those in districts and minor roads, excluding municipal corporations and national highways, can operate until 11 PM. However, it was the comment about liquor shops, which were previously open until 10 PM, that sparked widespread concern. The announcement quickly went viral, with many criticizing the move, citing worries over law and order.
The Chief Minister was quick to respond, taking to social media to issue a clarification. “Now shops can operate 24×7 in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar, with extended timings in other areas, without compromising on worker rights and conveniences! P.S. – This decision is not applicable for liquor shops and bars. The government has decided to extend operating hours for shops and establishments, but this extension does not apply to liquor stores and bars,” he wrote.
The clarification has put an end to the speculation, but the episode highlights how statements from top leaders can escalate into public debates, requiring prompt damage control. The Assam Congress, however, was swift to respond, condemning the move and accusing the Chief Minister of pushing his personal agendas.
The episode has raised concerns about the power of a single statement, particularly from high-ranking officials, and the importance of swift clarification to avoid misinformation. As the saying goes, “a single statement can be like a drop of water in a pond, causing ripples that spread far and wide.” In this instance, the ripples have already spread, with many questioning the wisdom of the decision.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/video/assam-cm-announces-2-am-closing-for-wine-shops-later-retracts-statement-1187147-2025-03-21?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-03-21 15:45:00
