Bhubaneswar, Nov 7: Intensifying their campaign against the sale and consumption of liquor, around 300 women allegedly stormed a government-licensed country liquor unit at Baripadar village in Odisha’s Nabarangpur district and set fire to its equipment on Friday.

The incident occurred under Dangariguda gram panchayat in Dabugaon block. A video purportedly showing the women setting the equipment ablaze has also gone viral on social media.

According to reports, the protesters, carrying sticks and iron rods, entered the premises and dragged out plastic drums and other materials used in liquor production. They subsequently set the items on fire, destroying several pieces of equipment.

The liquor unit had reportedly remained closed since April following the non-renewal of its licence. Only two to three employees were present at the premises to guard the equipment when the incident took place.

As the facility had been non-operational for several months, no major damage to the premises or injuries were reported. However, a substantial quantity of equipment and other materials was reduced to ashes.

Meanwhile, the anti-liquor movement led by women's groups in Nabarangpur has been gaining momentum. Protesters have intensified their campaign against the alleged illegal sale of country and foreign liquor as well as the operation of liquor outlets in the district.

There was no immediate response from the police or concerned departmental officials regarding the incident.

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