Illicit arrack trade still thrives in Proddatur

PRODDATUR: Proddatur Excise police have registered 3,578 cases against illicit arrack traders in the last five years apart from seizing 23,305 litres of illicit liquor, arresting as many as 1,050 persons and seizing 208 vehicles. From April to December last year alone 3,127 litres of arrack was seized while 127 people were arrested and 47 vehicles seized.It amply proves that excise police in spite of being active against illegal arrack traders, continue to draw flak from all sections in taking tough action to wipe out the menace which is  playing havoc with the lives of hundreds of poor people.This apart, insufficient staff, lacunae in the laws which was evident with the culprits involved in illicit brewing of arrack able to get out of jail, makes a mockery of their exercise.Against this backdrop, it is no surprise that the illicit arrack trade continues to thrive in the district, despite a hue and cry being made whenever there is a death due to consumption of illicit arrack. Political leaders blame the Excise police and the people curse the department for failing to take stringent action to contain the problem. The brewing and sale of illicit arrack will be at its peak during festive seasons.Under Proddatur circle, six excise stations have been functioning at Jammalamadugu, Yerraguntla, Mydukuru, Badvel, Pulivendula and Muddanur. Around 31 villages have been identified as illicit liquor prone localities while seven villages come under ‘A’ category.