Kachhabali becomes first liquor-free village in Rajasthan

Kachhabali village in Bhim tehsil of Rajsamand district has become the first in Rajasthan to liquor-free village.
The village achieved this feat after villagers voted to close down its lone liquor shop to stop alcohol sale in village in the referendum by 67.11%.
The referendum was conducted by the excise department of the state. It is for the first time the provision of the Rajasthan Excise Act, 1975, that provides for the closure of a country liquor shop, was invoked.
Under this provision of the Act, 51% of all registered voters not just those present and voting should opt to close down the shop.
Prior to conducting the poll, at least 20% of the voters of the Gram Panchayat or municipal Ward must seek a referendum on the issue in a letter to the district collector.

Month: Current Affairs - April, 2016