A truck transporting illegal liquor caught fire at Mahakhajan Dhargal in Pernem, exposing yet again the persistent problem of illicit trade in the region. The sudden blaze caused chaos in the area, but prompt action by fire services and local authorities prevented it from spreading further. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The incident has triggered a political storm, with Pernem Congress leader Jitendra Gaonkar launching a sharp attack on the state government. He accused Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and his administration of turning a blind eye to ongoing smuggling activities. “This is not a one-off event,” Gaonkar said. “Such operations have become routine due to administrative apathy.”
Calling for an urgent crackdown, Gaonkar demanded that law enforcement step up their efforts to combat the smuggling of liquor and other contraband. He also held the excise and transport departments accountable, alleging a complete failure in monitoring and enforcement.
Gaonkar urged immediate action to dismantle the illegal networks and restore public confidence in the rule of law.