YAMUNANAGAR: Tensions flared in the Durga Garden area of Jagadhri late last night as local residents staged a protest demanding the closure of a liquor vend they claim is fueling a rise in anti-social activities and threatening the safety of women and children in the neighborhood.Dozens of residents, including women, gathered outside the liquor vend and staged a dharna, alleging that the presence of the shop had led to frequent public disturbances. Protesters said that intoxicated individuals often created a ruckus near their homes, causing fear and discomfort, especially among women and girls.“My house is located right next to the liquor vend. Every evening, people drink and shout on the streets. It’s unsafe for our daughters and stressful for our families. This vend must be shut down immediately,” said a concerned local woman.Upon receiving information about the protest, a police team from the HUDA police station, led by SHO Inspector Suresh Kumar, arrived at the scene. The officers managed to pacify the protestors and urged them to formally lodge a complaint with the Deputy Commissioner. SHO Kumar assured the residents that if the Deputy Commissioner orders the shop’s relocation, it would be acted upon accordingly.Meanwhile, Excise and Taxation Inspector Anil Saini stated that the liquor vend in question is legal and has been operating at the current location for several years. He added that the protest may have been instigated by individuals involved in the illegal liquor trade, whose operations have reportedly been affected by the legal vend.“There are vested interests trying to mislead the public. Some individuals involved in illegal liquor sales want this licensed shop shut down for their benefit,” said Inspector Saini.The police assured the protesting residents that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and necessary action would be taken to ensure peace and safety in the area. The dharna was lifted following this assurance.