AAP MLA Mehraj Malik Stirs Controversy; Says Hindus Addicted; Even Consume Liquor on Marriages and Festivals

Jammu: AAP MLA Mehraj Malik has sparked a fresh controversy with his remarks on Hindus, alleging that they are “addicted” to alcohol and consume it even during festivals and marriages. Mehraj was speaking outside Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assembly, on the question pertaining to Liquor ban in J&K- a demand put forth by PDP MLA Waheed Para.

Taking a dig at BJP legislators, Malik questioned why they do not push for a liquor ban in Jammu and Kashmir. He accused them of selective politics, claiming that they raise concerns only when Muslim issues are involved but remain silent when Hindus face police action.

Malik further added, “Politicians have no religion, and they should understand this. I will oppose all—be it Hindu or Muslim. But BJP leaders create a hue and cry whenever a Muslim is mentioned. However, they remain silent when Hindus are lathi-charged.”

BJP leader Vikram Randhawa launched a scathing attack on Mehraj and termed Malik a “man of frivolous thinking,” Randhawa questioned his religious integrity and challenged him on his personal practices. “How many Rozas does he keep? We will expose him and the religion he follows,” Randhawa said.

He further dismissed Malik’s claims about BJP’s stance on liquor, clarifying that “There is no bill, question, or resolution on a liquor ban in the J&K Assembly.” Accusing the AAP MLA of seeking publicity, Randhawa added, “He is doing this just to gain TRP and come on TV. But mark my words—he will be trapped someday.”

Mehraj Malik Clarifies: ‘Intent Was Not to Hurt Anyone’

Amid the backlash, AAP MLA Mehraj Malik attempted to clarify his statement, asserting that his words were not meant to target any community. “This is not about Hindus or Muslims—everyone drinks. If someone felt hurt, it was not my intention,” he stated.

Defending his remarks, he added, “I only spoke what I have seen. I cannot be blind to reality. Don’t we see alcohol being served at marriages? I consider elections a festival too.”

Malik also reminded BJP of past incidents where women protesting against liquor shop openings were lathi-charged. He hit back at accusations of being intoxicated during his statement, saying, “They accused me of being drunk—let’s get them all tested.”