Munugode MLA Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy Introduces New Rules: Wine Shops to Open Only After 1 PM

To deal with the common problem of alcohol abuse in society, on a significant level, M.R.R. has constituted a strong set of guidelines for wine shops. Most villages usually adjust alcohol outlets in residential areas- not so in Munugode, where wine shops must be situated fully outside villages, without doors opening until 1 PM.

According to the new rules, permit rooms are allowed to function only between 6 PM and 9 PM, and belt shops are completely prohibited in villages. MLA Rajagopal Reddy personally held discussions with wine shop owners and secured their cooperation to enforce these measures.

Concern for Public Health

During the 2018 Assembly election campaign, several families from weaker sections had expressed concerns to the MLA. They revealed that men were skipping work and consuming alcohol from as early as 5 AM due to the widespread presence of belt shops. Many youngsters were also spending entire days drinking, affecting their health, future prospects, and causing frequent disputes.

Taking note of these grievances, Rajagopal Reddy initiated action to close belt shops across the constituency. Excise officials were instructed to strictly monitor illegal sales and file cases wherever violations were found. As a result, belt shops have been largely eliminated in the region.

Wine Shops Shifted Outside the Village

Continuing his reform efforts, the MLA has now ensured that wine shops are established only on the outskirts of the villages. In the Munugode constituency headquarters, all four allocated wine shops have been relocated — one each on the Nalgonda Road, Chandoor Road, Choutuppal Road, and the village outskirts.

“Expecting Positive Change Among People”

MLA Rajagopal Reddy said he hopes these measures will help prevent early-morning drinking habits and discourage youth from becoming addicted to alcohol.

He added,

“By removing belt shops and restricting the operating hours of liquor stores, we expect people to gradually move away from alcohol dependence. In the future, I am considering limiting wine-shop timings to 6 PM–10 PM and pushing for this to become a statewide policy.”