Bhim Army demands govt job for kin of hooch tragedy victims
MEERUT: Bhim Army activists staged a dharna outside the district magistrate’s office in Saharanpur on Monday demanding Rs 25 lakh ex-gratia and government jobs for the family members of hooch tragedy victims.
The protestors also demanded ban on sale of liquor in the district on February 19 – the birth anniversary dalit saint Ravidas. “We have given six days’ time to the district administration to accept our demands. Widespread protests will be launched, if they fail to act,” said Kamal Wali, district president, Bhim Army.
Over 62 people lost their lives in over a dozen villages of Saharanpur after consuming spurious liquor on Thursday night. Many victims were undergoing treatment in different hospitals of Meerut and Saharanpur.
“We would not allow any shop to sell liquor on February 19,” said Wali, adding: “The administration has sought six days to take a decision on our demands. If they fail to accept them, a massive movement will be launched in the district.”