U T Khader bats for law amendment to ban bars in residential areas

Manglauru, Nov 28: The issue of bars within residential areas was so far mere a question of right or wrong rather than anything to do with the law. However, U T Khader, Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, has now suggested bringing an amendment to the law to prevent bars functioning in residential areas.

On December 27, residents of Talapady Narlapadil (which falls under Mangaluru constituency represented by Mr Khader) on the outskirts of the city staged a protest opposing the opening of a bar in their locality. Mr Khader, who visited the protesters, said that government should find legal way to prevent opening bars in residential areas.

"After the Supreme Court's order, the bars situated beside the highway are being shifted to residential areas. There is a need for a tough law to check the setting up of bars in residential areas,” he said.

He also promised the protesters that the issue of opening a bar at Talapady Narlapadil would be brought to the notice of the Excise Minister and Excise Department.

Karnataka Gadinadu Rakshana Vedike President Siddeeq Talapady said that while issuing the permit, the gram panchayat has not consulted the villagers.

"If the bar is allowed to open, then we will hold a protest by locking Talapady gram panchayat," he warned.

Taluk Panchayat member Surekha Chandrahas said the opening of a bar at Narla will pose inconvenience to the residents, especially women.