Clamour for Ban on Liquor Grows as PDP Launches Signature Campaign
Srinagar, February 22, 2025 – With several political parties backing the call for a liquor ban in Jammu and Kashmir, the demand for making J&K a dry state is growing in the Valley. On Saturday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) launched a signature campaign to press for a ban on alcohol in the Union Territory. PDP leader Iltija Mufti initiated the campaign from the party office in Srinagar.
Speaking to reporters, Mufti said that drugs and alcohol were spreading like wildfire in J&K, emphasising that the issue was not political but social. She also urged other political parties to support the bill on banning alcohol, which has been submitted by her party’s MLA from North Kashmir. “I hope that the rest of the parties, including the National Conference, People’s Conference, and BJP, come forward and support us on this bill,” she said.
Ahead of the Budget session next month in Jammu, leaders from several Valley-based political parties have submitted private members’ bills advocating for a liquor ban across Jammu and Kashmir.
PDP MLA from North Kashmir, Fayaz Mir, announced that he had submitted a private members’ bill seeking a ban on liquor in J&K. Additionally, the Awami Ittehad Party, led by jailed Lok Sabha MP Engineer Rashid, stated that its MLA, Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad, had also submitted a bill demanding a complete alcohol ban. Similarly, Ahsan Pardeshi, an MLA from the ruling National Conference representing Srinagar’s Lal Chowk, announced that he, too, had submitted a bill for a liquor ban.
The National Conference, however, found itself in a difficult position after Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemned a statement by National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq, who had linked the issue with tourism in J&K. Under pressure, Sadiq later reversed his stance, supporting the liquor ban in a video message, stating, “I am against alcohol. I support a liquor ban.”
Abdul Qayoom Wani, chairman of the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum, said J&K should be declared a “dry state.” “We shouldn’t correlate alcohol with tourism,” he said. “Tourists come here to experience nature, not for alcohol.” He pointed out that several states in India are dry states, and there should be no issue if J&K follows suit. “Those who are politicising this issue should refrain from doing so and instead work towards its implementation,” Wani added.
Rauf Tramboo, president of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the tourism sector in J&K should not be linked to alcohol. “Tourists come here for adventure and leisure. We hardly receive any inquiries about the availability of alcohol. So, we should avoid associating this issue with tourism,” he said, adding, “Everyone should respect the local sentiments on this matter.”
The Campaign Launch
The signature campaign was officially launched at the PDP head office in Srinagar. Initially planned to kick off at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, the campaign had to be relocated due to police restrictions. Despite this, the campaign has received significant attention and support from various political parties and community leaders.
Iltija Mufti’s Call to Action
Iltija Mufti, daughter of former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue of alcohol and drug abuse in the region. “We are here for a serious issue. Drugs and alcohol are spreading like wildfire. Our aim is to create awareness against drugs and alcohol,” she stated. Mufti highlighted that the consumption of drugs and liquor is affecting the moral fabric of society and urged the public to support the campaign.
Political Support and Legislative Efforts
The campaign has garnered support from several political parties, including the National Conference (NC), People’s Conference (PC), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). PDP MLA from Kupwara, Mir Mohammad Fayaz, has introduced a bill in the J&K assembly seeking a complete ban on liquor in the union territory. Additionally, AIP legislator from Langate, Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh, and NC legislator Ahsan Pardesi have also submitted private bills advocating for a liquor ban.
Community and Trade Reactions
The call for a liquor ban has resonated with various community leaders and traders in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir. Traders have raised hoardings and banners seeking a ban on the sale of alcohol, emphasizing the need to protect the cultural and social values of the region. Abdul Qayoom Wani, chairman of the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum, stated, “We shouldn’t correlate alcohol with tourism. Tourists come here to experience nature, not for alcohol.”
Challenges and Opposition
While the campaign has received widespread support, it has also faced challenges. The police removed anti-alcohol hoardings put up by traders in Lal Chowk, leading to criticism from political leaders and community members. Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq questioned the police’s actions, asking, “Why was this signboard seized? What exactly is wrong with urging tourists to respect local culture, avoid alcohol and use of drugs, and keep the city clean?”
Conclusion
The PDP’s signature campaign for a complete ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir highlights the growing concern over the impact of alcohol and drugs on society. As the campaign gains momentum, it underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects local values while addressing the challenges posed by substance abuse.
