Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant has informed the Goa Assembly that as many as 91 wholesale liquor stores are operating within 100 metres of schools across the state, raising concerns over the proximity of alcohol outlets to educational institutions.
Replying to a question raised by opposition MLAs, the Chief Minister said that despite the close distance, no cases have been reported of school children purchasing liquor from these stores so far. He assured the House that the government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure strict compliance with regulations.
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Of the 91 liquor stores, the highest number – 29 – were found in Tiswadi taluka alone. In Chaudi, Canacona, some stores were located extremely close to schools, at a distance of just seven to eight metres, highlighting the seriousness of the issue.
The disclosure has sparked discussions in the Assembly on the need for stricter enforcement of rules and possible relocation of such outlets to safeguard students and uphold the spirit of child protection and public health.
