Public Demand for Immediate Relocation of Wine Shop in Mallikapur Village, Dasarathpur Block, Jajpur District for Student Safety.

Jajpur, Odisha — The Residents of Mallikapur village in Dasarathpur Block have launched a united campaign demanding the immediate relocation of a wine shop operating in the heart of the village, citing serious concerns over student safety and public order.

The Issue
The wine shop, located near the main road passing through Mallikapur, is allegedly in close proximity to Adarsh school and S.G collage centers attended by hundreds of students daily. Parents, teachers, and village committee members say the presence of the shop has led to increased loitering, traffic disturbances, and an environment they describe as "unsafe and inappropriate" for children.

Every day our children walk past this shop to reach school. We have seen arguments, roadside drinking, and two-wheelers parked haphazardly," said a parent from Mallikapur. "This is not the environment we want for our students."

Community Mobilization
Over the past week, residents have submitted written memorandums to the Sarpanch of Mallikapur Gram Panchayat, the Block Development Officer of Dasarathpur, and the Excise Department of Jajpur district. A signature campaign was also carried out, with more than 300 villagers reportedly signing in support of relocation.

Members of the Village Education Committee and local youth groups held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss next steps. They stated that while they do not oppose licensed businesses, the current location violates the spirit of keeping alcohol outlets away from educational institutions and densely populated residential areas.

Key Demands
The villagers have put forward 3 main demands:
1.Immediate relocation of the wine shop to a site outside the main residential and school zone of Mallikapur
2.Strict enforcement of distance norms from schools and public gathering places as per excise policy
3.Consultation with Gram Sabha before any future licensing decisions affecting the village

"We respect the law and livelihoods, but student safety must come first," said a member of the Dasarathpur Block Student Welfare Association. "There are other suitable locations on the highway away from the village center."

Administration Response
As of now, officials from the Excise Department, Jajpur, have acknowledged receipt of the memorandum and said the matter will be "examined as per rules and existing license conditions." The Block Administration has assured villagers that a joint inspection will be conducted.

Local police have also been asked to increase patrolling during school opening and closing hours to prevent any untoward incidents until a final decision is made.

What’s Next
Villagers have warned of a peaceful dharna at the Block office if no action is taken within 15 days. They maintain that the demand is not against business, but for ensuring a safe passage and learning environment for students.

The issue has sparked wider discussion in neighboring villages of Dasarathpur Block about regulating the placement of liquor outlets near schools and colleges.