NONGPOH : Following several complaints received from different villages regarding auto-rickshaw drivers allegedly transporting and supplying liquor in and around Nongpoh, the Nongpoh Region Auto Owners’ and Drivers’ Association (NRAO&DA) has clarified that it bears no responsibility for such activities carried out by individual members.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the President of the Association, Bah Banasar Lyngdoh Nonglait, said the organization has no prior knowledge of such illegal activities and that any member found involved in liquor transportation or delivery would be held personally accountable for their actions.
He stated that the Association appreciates the cooperation of village authorities who regularly inform the organization whenever any of its members are caught engaging in such activities. Recently, a number of auto-rickshaws allegedly transporting liquor were intercepted in the Mawdiangum and Nongpoh areas.
Bah Banasar emphasized that the Association does not encourage or support any form of illegal liquor trade. He further said that if any member is caught by law enforcement agencies or village authorities, the Association will not take responsibility for the consequences.
According to him, the Association has received information that some auto-rickshaws carrying NRAO&DA stickers purchase liquor from licensed outlets during the daytime and later distribute or deliver it to different locations in the evening.
“The Association completely dissociates itself from such activities. If village authorities catch anyone involved, they are free to take action according to their respective village rules and regulations,” Bah Banasar Lyngdoh said.
He also urged members of the public and village authorities to immediately report such cases to the police so that appropriate legal action can be taken against those involved.