The auction of the liquor taverns took place in Ootacamund on February 18th. Mr. Painter, I.C.S., Sub-Collector, along with Abkari and Revenue officials, announced that hill tribes, including the Badagas, Todas, Kotas, Kurumbas, and Irulas, are prohibited from consuming liquor unless they have medical certificates. However, the public is not in favor of this partial measure as it may lead to smuggling. A public meeting is soon to be held to protest against this and advocate for complete prohibition. Despite this, enthusiasm is shown by the communities affected by the prohibition.