Women storm illicit liquor dens near Pennagaram

Tension prevailed near Pennagaram in Dharmapuri district after a group of women vandalised shops allegedly selling illicit liquor in the area.
Residents of villages around Pennagaram had repeatedly complained about the functioning of illegal liquor outlets, stating that they were affecting family finances, children’s education and domestic peace. Despite continuous appeals, no effective action had reportedly been taken.
Angered over the inaction, a group of women and locals gathered on Monday and attacked four such illegal shops operating in the Podur area. The protesters pelted stones and damaged the outlets, triggering a commotion in the locality.
During the incident, an argument broke out between the women and one of the liquor sellers. When the man attempted to escape by running into nearby rain-fed fields, the women chased him, further escalating the situation.
Following information, Pennagaram police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. Three persons identified as Mathesh (59), Souda Mani (39) and Govindaraj (48), who were allegedly running the illicit liquor shops in the Podur area, were arrested.
Police also seized 56 bottles of liquor from their possession. Further investigation is under way.