Liquor Ban Debate in Kashmir: Altaf Bukhari Invokes Cultural and Religious Values Amid Policy Push

Liquor Ban Debate in Kashmir: Altaf Bukhari Invokes Cultural and Religious Values Amid Policy Push

Liquor Ban Debate in Kashmir Rekindled: Culture, Faith, and Policy at Crossroads By: Javid Amin | 02 April 2026 A fresh political debate has taken shape in Srinagar after Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari called for a blanket ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir, drawing comparisons with Gujarat—India’s longest-standing prohibition state. His remarks, delivered on April 2, 2026, have reignited a long-standing and sensitive conversation—one that sits at the intersection of law, culture, religion, economy, and identity. Political Statement: A Call for Clarity and Consistency Speaking to reporters, Bukhari questioned…

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Kashmir’s Substance Abuse Crisis: Families Grapple with Stigma and Despair

Kashmir’s Substance Abuse Crisis: Families Grapple with Stigma and Despair

Substance Abuse in Kashmir: A Crisis Unfolding In the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, a dark and growing crisis is gripping families and communities—substance abuse. The story of Murtaza Hussain, a 27-year-old recovering heroin addict, sheds light on the devastating impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones. A Promising Future Lost to Addiction Once a disciplined and ambitious student, Hussain’s life took a tragic turn during his 11th grade. His father recalls the early signs: withdrawing from family, skipping school, and staying out late. What began as bad company…

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Quota Policy Controversy: Mufti and Mirwaiz Call for Action from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Quota Policy Controversy: Mufti and Mirwaiz Call for Action from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Mufti and Mirwaiz Oppose Quota Policy, Urge Omar Abdullah to Find Solution Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday described the ongoing reservation issue in the region as a “serious matter” and urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take immediate action to resolve the situation. “This is a very serious issue. From a young age, we tell our children to work hard and succeed in life. But today, merit has become the biggest casualty,” Mufti told reporters. She expressed concern that…

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