Politicians And Traders Unite: Say No To Alcohol In Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is set to kick off a signature campaign on Saturday, demanding a complete ban on alcohol across Jammu and Kashmir. Spearheaded by PDP youth leader Iltija Mufti, the campaign will run from 11 AM to 2 PM at Sher e Kashmir Park, opposite J&K PDP office, Residency Road, Srinagar.

“Alcohol and drugs are wrecking lives and families in J&K. We must come together to end it before it’s too late,” Iltija Mufti posted on X, urging citizens to support the campaign and PDP’s proposed bill seeking a blanket ban on alcohol in the Union Territory.

The campaign comes after PDP MLA from Kupwara, Fayaz Ahmad Mir, introduced a private member’s bill in the Assembly, calling for a total ban on the advertisement, sale, purchase, consumption, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in J&K. The bill outlines stringent penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines, for violators.

“We cannot ignore the rising cases of substance abuse here. Alcohol is becoming a gateway for many young people into more harmful addictions,” PDP leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed-ur- Rehman Parra said.

PDP’s move has sparked widespread support from across the political spectrum. In a bid to align with public sentiment, National Conference (NC) MLA Ahsan Pardesi has also introduced a private member’s bill seeking a ban on alcohol in Kashmir and other Muslim-majority areas of J&K. Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) has thrown its weight behind the initiative.

 “The Congress will stand with any proposal aimed at protecting our youth and preserving the social fabric of J&K.” said senior vice president of JKPCC, G.N. Monga.

Veteran CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami, also endorsed the proposed legislation.

“We don’t need a constitutional amendment for this. A simple majority in the Assembly is enough, and looking at the current mood, that shouldn’t be a problem,” Tarigami told Republic Tv.

Local traders have also joined the movement. The Traders Association of Lal Chowk has erected a signboard near the iconic Ghanta Ghar, urging tourists to respect local customs and avoid alcohol, drugs, and smoking during their stay.

Signboard reads:

“Welcome, Dear Tourists. Traders Association, Central Lal Chowk, invites you to experience the beauty of our heaven on earth! For a memorable trip, kindly avoid liquor, drugs, spitting on roads, and smoking. Respect our culture and traditions. Stay blessed and enjoy your time in our enchanting city!”

“Tourists are always welcome, but they should be mindful of local customs and community sentiments,” said Abdul Rashid, a shopkeeper near Lal Chowk.

Recent months have seen several incidents involving intoxicated individuals near sensitive areas, including revered shrines, busy markets, and tourist hotspots. Locals have raised concerns about frequent sightings of inebriated people near the Dastgeer Sahib Shrine in downtown  and along Boulevard Road near Dal Lake.

“We’ve seen people pass out near the shrine, creating an unsettling environment for visitors,” said a shopkeeper near Dastgir Sahib Shrine.

Similar disturbances have been reported in Lal Chowk and Tangmarg, where drunk tourists and non-locals/tourists have caused disruptions.

Tourism stakeholders fear that such incidents could tarnish Kashmir’s image. “While we welcome tourists, public intoxication around major tourist hubs creates a negative impression and discourages family travelers,” said a Tangmarg  hotelier.

Despite these concerns, alcohol consumption in J&K has steadily increased over the past decade. Data from the Excise Department shows a surge in liquor sales, particularly in urban centers like Srinagar and Jammu.

Health experts have long warned about the adverse effects of alcohol on the region’s youth.

A report by the Drug De-addiction Centre in Srinagar revealed that alcohol is the second most abused substance among young adults in Kashmir, following prescription drugs.

The growing cross-party support for the alcohol ban highlights a rare moment of political consensus in Jammu and Kashmir. However, critics argue that some parties may be using the issue to appeal to conservative voters ahead of the upcoming elections.

As the PDP’s signature campaign gains momentum, all eyes are on the Assembly to see if public sentiment will translate into law. If passed, J&K would join states like Gujarat and Bihar in imposing total prohibition.