People’s Democratic Party Calls for Complete Ban on Liquor in Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar, February 22, 2025 – The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) launched a signature campaign in Jammu and Kashmir on February 23 to gather support for a complete ban on liquor in the region. The campaign was organised to back a bill introduced by PDP MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz, which proposes a total prohibition of alcohol in the union territory. The initiative was launched by party leader Iltija Mufti at the PDP’s head office.
Mufti had initially planned to begin the campaign at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, but the police did not permit the gathering to proceed to the location, so the campaign was instead initiated from the party office.
“We are here for a serious issue. Drugs and alcohol are spreading like wildfire. The PDP MLA from Kupwara introduced a bill in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly seeking a ban on alcohol. We have started the signature campaign from the PDP office,” Mufti told reporters following the launch.
She expressed concern over the growing consumption of drugs and alcohol, noting their negative impact on society’s moral values. “Our goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs. Over the past few years, numerous liquor shops have opened in J-K, and alcohol is now easily accessible. We urge the public to support this campaign,” she added.
Mufti called on other political parties to back the PDP’s bill, emphasising that the issue was social, not political. “I hope the other parties support us. I hope NC, PC, and BJP also back this bill, as it is not a political issue, but a social one. There is massive unemployment in J-K, and the youth are struggling, which leads them to turn to alcohol and drugs,” she said.
Addressing the heavy police presence outside the party office, the PDP leader clarified, “We are not here to cause any trouble; we do not want to create any law and order (issue).” “We are simply here to appeal to the people to say no to drugs and no to alcohol. I urge the public to come here and support this signature campaign and show their backing. Alcohol is a serious issue here and must be prohibited. I am calling for a complete ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol and drugs,” she said.
Mufti further appealed to both the Union Territory and the Central governments to make Jammu and Kashmir an alcohol-free region. “Just as Bihar, Gujarat, and Nagaland have become alcohol-free states, and this decision has had no adverse effect on tourism, we also advocate making J-K an alcohol-free state,” she concluded.
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?”
Bottom-Line: 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.
