A shocking video from Nainpur town in Madhya Pradesh’s Mandla district has gone viral, showing schoolgirls in uniform purchasing liquor from a government-run shop — an incident that has stirred public outrage and prompted swift administrative action.

The CCTV footage, which has been widely circulated on social media, captures a group of young girls, dressed in school uniforms with scarves partially covering their heads, confidently entering the liquor shop. They are seen walking up to the counter, buying alcohol, and leaving the premises — while the shop staff complete the transaction without hesitation.

The video has embarrassed local authorities and sparked a heated debate over law enforcement failures and the growing social challenges surrounding underage drinking in the state.

Investigation Launched

Once the footage went viral, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Ashutosh Thakur, along with the Tehsildar and local police, reached the store for an immediate inspection. The officials closely reviewed the CCTV recording and confirmed that liquor was indeed sold to minors, violating the General Licence Conditions (GLC) and state excise laws.

Following this, SDM Thakur ordered the Excise Department to launch a detailed inquiry and submit an urgent report. The shop owner and staff are currently being interrogated to determine if the girls acted independently or under someone’s influence.

District Excise Officer Ramji Pandey confirmed the findings, stating,

“The inquiry has verified the incident. A detailed report will be sent to the Collector. The shop’s licence will be cancelled, and a fine will be imposed. The employee who sold alcohol to minors will be dismissed. Selling liquor to underage individuals is a serious offence.”

Public and Political Outrage

The footage has provoked widespread anger in Mandla, with residents demanding strict punitive action and questioning how such an illegal sale could occur in a government establishment.

The controversy has also taken on a political tone, with opposition leaders targeting the ruling BJP over the issue.
Former MLA and Congress district president Dr. Ashok Marskole criticised the government, saying,

“When Jitu Patwari cited a central government report to expose rising alcoholism in Madhya Pradesh, BJP leaders burnt his effigy. Now, when schoolgirls are buying liquor in Nainpur, where are those same leaders and their so-called defenders of women’s dignity?”

Authorities have assured strict action and have temporarily sealed the liquor outlet pending completion of the investigation.

The disturbing visuals have reignited discussions on youth supervision, social awareness, and the responsibility of the excise department in ensuring that government liquor shops operate within legal boundaries.