Entire gram panchayat Chawdi resigns over opening of Wine shop and FIR against Women protesters
Shimla, July 15,
In an unprecedented move, the entire Gram Panchayat of Chawdi in Development Block Seoni, District Shimla, has resigned in protest against the opening of a wine shop in Khera village and the filing of FIRs against women who opposed it.
In a letter to the District Panchayat Officer dated July 10, 2025, Pradhan Harvinder Singh, Up-Pradhan Om Prakash, and ward members Chhotu Ram, Babu Ram, Anisha, Sushma, Rajni, and Devinder expressed deep anguish over the state’s decision to permit the shop from July 1 despite a unanimous resolution against it passed on June 24.
The letter accused the Excise and Taxation Department of disregarding public sentiment and using coercive means, including FIRs against peacefully protesting women. The Panchayat cited disruption of peace and the dignity of women and children as key concerns.
“We feel betrayed by the administration and no longer wish to be a part of a governance system that disregards the will of the people,” the letter states.
Locals have demanded immediate revocation of the shop’s license and withdrawal of the FIRs.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
