The Odisha government has decided not to proceed with its plan to permit liquor shacks on Puri beach.
The excise department has announced that no licenses will be issued for beach shacks within the jurisdiction of Puri municipality or within 5km of any site of socio-religious or cultural significance.
Arpit Pattnaik
The excise department has announced that no licenses will be granted for beach shacks within the jurisdiction of Puri municipality or within 5km of any site of socio-religious or cultural significance. The state's new excise policy, revealed on August 30, allowed liquor to be served at shacks near the sea, rivers, lakes, and dams to enhance tourist entertainment and revenue. Controversy erupted after the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) invited bids to set up beach shacks along the coastline from Puri to Konark to boost beach tourism. However, the move faced strong resistance from socio-cultural groups, leading to a demonstration in front of the Shree Jagannath Temple two days ago. Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati opposed the move, stating that Jagannath Dham should remain a place for spiritual pursuits and religious activities rather than amusement. He argued that serving liquor would undermine the spiritual sanctity of Puri and tarnish the Jagannath culture. "Jagannath Dham is a place for spiritual pursuit and soul-searching, not for amusement. Puri beach should be a place devoted to bhajan, kirtan, and religious discourses, and should not serve as a destination for pleasure-seeking," the Shankaracharya told reporters on September 11. Protesters also submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Mohan Majhi through the Puri Collector opposing any such move. The new excise policy also included provisions for temporary liquor licenses at eco-retreat venues at promotional rates. In 2021, a similar proposal to establish beach shacks in six locations, including Puri, was shelved due to protests.
