Traders at Jaipur's historic Chandpole market have escalated their protest against a controversial liquor shop, issuing an ultimatum for a complete market shutdown on December 31 if the authorities do not take swift action. The dispute centers on the shop's proximity to numerous temples, causing unrest among local business owners and residents.
Controversial Relocation Fuels Tensions
The liquor outlet was originally operating from Shop No-2 at the corner of Govind Rao Ji Ka Rasta in Chandpole Bazaar. Following strong opposition from traders concerned about its closeness to temples, the excise department sealed the shop in July. However, the conflict reignited when the shop was controversially reopened in September at Shop No-145. Traders allege this new location is even closer to a cluster of nearly 24 temples and religious sites, significantly escalating community tensions.
Traders Take Their Fight to the Minister
In a bid to find a resolution, a joint delegation from the Jaipur Vyapar Mahasangh and the Chandpole Bazaar Vyapar Mandal met with Urban Development and Housing (UDH) Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra on Monday. They submitted a memorandum firmly opposing the shop's presence in the area. During the meeting, traders highlighted critical concerns regarding public safety and the dignity of women in the community, arguing that the liquor outlet damages the market's respect and reputation.
Subhash Goyal, President of the Chandpole Bazaar Vyapar Mandal, articulated the traders' stance. "We are fighting for the safety and dignity of our women and daughters. The liquor shop is damaging the respect and reputation of our market," Goyal stated. He emphasized that existing rules prohibit liquor shops near religious places and suggested the outlet be shifted to a non-objectionable location if it must operate.
Security Incidents Heighten Safety Fears
The traders' concerns are not merely theoretical. Ghan Shyam Bhootda, General Secretary of the Chandpole Bazaar Vyapar Mandal, cited a recent alarming incident that has shaken the community. The brass dome of a Shiva temple situated directly opposite the liquor shop was stolen. "Such incidents have deeply hurt us and raised serious concerns about security in the area," Bhootda said, linking the perceived decline in safety to the shop's presence.
The traders' ultimatum sets the stage for a potential major disruption in one of Jaipur's key commercial areas. All eyes are now on the state authorities to see if they will intervene before the December 31 deadline to avert the threatened shutdown and address the community's grievances.
