A group of Kharghar residents, under the banner of the citizen-led movement "Sangharsh", held a token hunger strike today
A group of residents in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, began a token hunger strike on Wednesday, May 1. The strike, organized by the citizen-led movement Sangharsh, aims to renew the demand for Kharghar to be declared a "Liquor-Free City."
The community has been protesting against the increasing number of liquor licenses being issued in Kharghar despite earlier promises and repeated protests. Kharghar has traditionally been alcohol-free and possesses a unique social, cultural, and educational profile that merits such status, the protestors stated.
"We are not against any business—but we are against the kind of business that harms our youth, disturbs social harmony, and creates law-and-order issues," said a representative from Sangharsh. "This hunger strike is not just a protest—it's a plea to protect our students, our families, and our future."
Kharghar is home to several educational institutions, cultural centers, and religious places, making it a hub for students and families from across the region. The residents believe that a growing liquor trade will negatively impact Kharghar's image and public safety.
In 2007, residents had successfully opposed a wine shop license through public mobilization and legal means, forcing authorities to revoke the permit. Since then, various efforts—ranging from mass protests, complete shutdowns, and even resolutions passed by the Gram Panchayat and Panvel Municipal Corporation—have reinforced the community’s stance. Multiple elected representatives have also raised the issue in the Assembly and Council.
Despite this, it was observed that bar licenses continue to be granted, sparking recurring unrest. Sangharsh activists submitted memorandums to the District Collector and the State Excise Superintendent on 28 April, demanding action. With no response so far, residents have resorted to this hunger strike to draw attention.
If the government fails to respond, the next phase of the hunger strike will take place on 31 May and 1 June 2025. The protestors are appealing to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and the Minister of State Excise to fulfill their just and lawful demand and officially declare Kharghar as a "Liquor-Free City" under provisions of the Bombay Prohibition Act, 1949.
