Curfew of 10pm for women in Andhra Pradesh

In the latest attempt to discourage pub goers in the state, Andhra Pradesh - which is quite large consumer of alcohol - banned women from staying in pubs, bars or clubs beyond 10 pm. 

According to a senior police official, this step was apparently enforced given quite a few instances where drunk women got into arguments with auto drivers and the likes. But what about the numerous times when drunken men got involved in brawls? Of course, that has been overlooked. 

The owners of clubs etc have been instructed to ensure women leave by 10pm, failing which, their liquor licences would be cancelled. 

Many women organizations, but naturally, have criticized the move, terming it as male chauvinistic and  undemocratic - which it is! When on one side the government talks about equality, such moves only contradict their statements. 

Apart from that, only 21-year-olds and above have been permitted entry into pubs and clubs in the state for most cases, despite the legal age of alcohol consumption in the country is 18.  

How long are we have to wait till rules will be the same for men and women in our country? When one talks of a democracy, India seems to be taking a step or two backwards than making any progress whatsoever.