Women’s organisations in Visakhapatnam have rallied against the Andhra Pradesh government's proposal to allow liquor sales at beach shacks. They urge the state to scrap the order and focus on safer, culturally‑rich tourism development.
Key Takeaways
- Andhra Pradesh govt proposed G.O. 362 to allow liquor sales at beach shacks
- Women’s groups demand its withdrawal
- Potential impact on tourism, safety, and local culture highlighted
At a round‑table convened near the Gandhi statue on the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation campus, women’s organisations under the banner of the United Forum for Women’s Organisations (Mahila Sanghala Aikya Vedika) demanded the revocation of G.O. No. 362. The order seeks to permit liquor sales through beach shacks on Visakhapatnam Beach, sparking concerns over public safety and community wellbeing.
Background and Historical Context
Visakhapatnam’s coastline has long been a magnet for tourists, with beach shacks offering food, refreshments, and informal entertainment. However, previous attempts to introduce alcohol sales in coastal venues have often led to clashes between commercial interests and local residents, especially women’s groups who cite increased harassment and family‑disruption as primary concerns. Andhra Pradesh’s liquor policy has oscillated between revenue‑driven liberalisation and stricter controls, making this latest proposal a flashpoint.
Women’s Coalitions React
The meeting was chaired by AIDWA state leader B. Padma, NFIW state president A. Vimala, POW state president M. Lakshmi, and CMS state leader Lalitha. Senior advocate Giridhar, AIDWA vice‑president B. Prabhavathi, CITU district secretary S. Jyothiswara Rao, and representatives from trade unions, student bodies, and civil‑society NGOs also attended. They argued that allowing liquor at the promenade would jeopardise the safety of women, children, and families, and urged the government to enhance tourism through improved civic amenities, cultural infrastructure, museums, and heritage sites instead.
Strategic Next Steps
Participants formed a “Beach Shacks Opposition Committee” to coordinate future protests, legal challenges, and awareness campaigns. The coalition pledged to intensify agitation should the government proceed, signalling a readiness to mobilise large‑scale demonstrations across the city.
Potential Implications
If the proposal moves forward, the state could face heightened social unrest, a dip in tourist confidence, and criticism from national women’s rights bodies. Conversely, withdrawing the order could reinforce Andhra Pradesh’s image as a safe, family‑friendly destination, while still delivering economic gains through diversified tourism initiatives.