In 1920, the Indian National Congress initiated the Non-Cooperation Movement as a reaction to the British government's denial of autonomy to India along with various other factors. The subsequent phase of this movement was significant because it resulted in the emergence of various campaigns, including the Anti-Liquor Movement in various districts of the country, an example being the Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu.
At a conference in 1920 in Viluppuram, S. Satyamurti delivered a speech on Swaraj. Following this, an 800-delegate meeting was held, and a resolution for Non-Cooperation was approved by the majority of the delegates. This marked the beginning of the second phase of the movement, which started off with a robust anti-alcohol campaign in 1921 that aimed at promoting temperance. In several locations across the district, liquor stores were picketed, cartmen were prevented from delivering alcohol to depots and stores etc. Protesters set stores on fire. Non-cooperators carried out a complete social boycott of those who did not comply with the call for promotion of ban on liquor.
The anti-liquor movement in Viluppuram was a significant milestone in India's social and political history. It reflected that people could unite and fight against an oppressive colonial system and create positive change in society. The movement inspired many other similar movements across the country, and eventually, India succeeded in achieving prohibition in many parts of the country.
Source: Indian Culture Portal