TEMPO.CO, Singapore - Harsh protests against alcohol were raised by Singapore’s bureaucrats and parliament following a riot that broke out in Little India, as they plan to implement stricter regulations on the distribution and consumption of alcohol in the country.
The MPs from Little India are pushing for even tougher measures in response to the Singaporean Home Affairs Ministry’s proposal to implement alcohol-free zones in the area. They also have the support of shop owners in the affected area, who just a year ago were against any such law, reported the Straits Times.
The ministry is seeking public views on two proposed rules: banning alcohol consumption in common areas like void decks and pavements, and limiting the hours during which stores can sell alcohol.
In recent years, the Singaporean parliament and government have raised concerns about the rowdy affects of free alcohol consumption.
The most recent problem occurred on Sunday night when a riot broke out in Little India, injuring 16 people. An angry mob attacked and burned an ambulance and some police vehicles resulting in the police to detain 27 rioters. Police say this is the first time in 30 years such an incident has occurred in Singapore.
SANDY INDRA PRATAMA | STRAITS TIMES
