Date:18/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/18/stories/2008081860120800.htm

Tamil Nadu

Meet demands total prohibition in State

Special Correspondent

“NFIW will soon launch a campaign against the liquor shops”

CHENNAI: The Chennai district unit of the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) demanded total prohibition in Tamil Nadu saying that the State-owned liquor shops were depriving the livelihood of poor families.

A resolution passed in the NFIW district conference on Sunday said a majority of men from poor families spent their entire earnings in liquor shops leaving nothing for the families.

Worst sufferers

“The women are the worst sufferers as they bear the brunt of their men’s drinking habits. A total prohibition alone will save these families. NFIW will soon launch a campaign against the liquor shops,” the resolution said.

Expressing concern over the violence against women, another resolution urged the government to appoint a separate protection officer to deal with cases registered under the newly enacted Prevention of Domestic Violence Act.

“Now an officer from the social department is holding additional charge. A separate officer alone can ensure strict implementation of the act,” the resolution added.

The conference also asked the government to take steps to improve the conditions of its hospitals in North Chennai.