Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Friday withdrew its decision to set up beach shacks serving liquor on Puri beach, two days after the Puri Shankaracharya and various socio-cultural organisations opposed the move. The state excise department issued a notification stating that no licences would be granted for beach shacks within the Puri municipality's jurisdiction or within 5 kilometres of any site of socio-religious or cultural importance.
This decision follows the announcement of Odisha's new excise policy on August 30, which allowed the serving of liquor at shacks near seas, rivers, lakes and dams to boost tourism and revenue. The policy sparked controversy after the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) invited bids for beach shacks along the coastline between Puri and Konark, aimed at promoting beach tourism.
However, strong resistance arose, particularly from religious leaders and social groups. Demonstrations were held in front of the Shree Jagannath Temple earlier this week, with protesters opposing the move.
Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati expressed his concerns, emphasising that Puri, particularly Jagannath Dham, should remain a place of spiritual and religious significance. He argued that introducing liquor in the area would harm the sacredness of Puri and its deep-rooted cultural heritage.
"Jagannath Dham is the place for spiritual pursuit and soul-searching and not for amusement. Puri Beach should be a place devoted to bhajan, kirtan and religious discourses. It should not serve as a destination for pleasure-seeking," the Shankaracharya told reporters on September 11.
Protesters also submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Mohan Majhi through the Puri Collector opposing any such move. The new excise policy also included provisions for temporary liquor licences at eco-retreat venues at promotional rates. In 2021, a similar proposal to establish beach shacks in six locations, including Puri, was shelved due to protests.
Clarifying the government's stance, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan stated that beach shacks would not be permitted near Puri's 'Mahodadhi' (sea beach) or within the Puri municipality, including areas where eco-retreats are held. Additionally, no beach shacks will be allowed within 5 kilometres of any religious or socio-cultural sites.
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