No New Liquor Outlets in Odisha for Next Three Years, Says CM Majhi

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced that no new liquor shops will be opened in the state for the next three years, as he called for intensified efforts to eliminate substance abuse and reiterated the government's zero-tolerance policy against drugs.

Addressing the public awareness programme ‘Jiban Jindabad-2.0’, organised by the Police Commissionerate here on Sunday, Majhi said intoxicating substances not only destroy individuals but also have a damaging impact on their families and society.

He said substance abuse has emerged as a major factor behind heinous crimes and violence against women, and stressed the need for stronger preventive and enforcement measures.

“ No new liquor shops will open in Odisha for the next three years, ” Majhi said. The chief minister claimed that 2.60 lakh to 2.80 lakh people die every year due to alcohol consumption, describing the situation as a matter of serious concern. He also said Odisha ranks second in fatalities caused by drunk driving.

Majhi directed the state police and excise administration to adopt stricter and proactive measures against alcohol as well as high-risk drugs such as cannabis, opium and synthetic drugs. He said local administrations have been made accountable for preventing the illegal liquor trade and sale of spurious liquor.

The chief minister also highlighted other measures taken by the state government to curb substance abuse. The production and sale of tobacco- and nicotine-laced pan masala and gutkha have been completely banned, he said.

School and college campuses have also been declared substance-free zones, with authorities expected to ensure strict compliance. Majhi also launched a special website of the Police Commissionerate dedicated to the ‘Drug-free India’ initiative at the awareness programme.

The government’s latest announcement comes amid its stated efforts to strengthen enforcement against intoxicants and create greater public awareness about the social and health consequences of substance abuse.