PDP Launches Signature Campaign Seeking Complete Ban on Liquor in Jammu & Kashmir
Srinagar, Feb 22: In a decisive move against the rising influence of alcohol and substance abuse in Jammu & Kashmir, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has launched a signature campaign calling for a complete ban on liquor in the Union Territory. The campaign, spearheaded by PDP leader Iltija Mufti, aims to mobilize public support for a bill proposed by party MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz, advocating for the prohibition of alcohol to safeguard societal values and protect the younger generation from its harmful effects.
Initially planned to be launched at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, the campaign had to be shifted to the PDP headquarters after police restrictions prevented the party from reaching the venue. Addressing the media at the party office, Mufti expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in alcohol and drug consumption, which she said was eroding the moral fabric of society.
“We are here to address a serious issue that threatens the well-being of our people. The unchecked proliferation of liquor shops in J&K has made alcohol easily accessible, contributing to social degradation and increasing substance abuse among the youth. Our MLA from Kupwara has already introduced a bill in the Assembly seeking a total ban on alcohol, and this campaign is an effort to rally public support for it,” Mufti stated.
She further emphasized that the fight against liquor was not a political agenda but a collective social responsibility. Urging all political parties, including the National Conference (NC), People’s Conference (PC), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to support the bill, Mufti reiterated that the issue transcends political lines and directly impacts the future of Jammu & Kashmir.
“Unemployment and hopelessness among youth have driven them toward addiction. Instead of addressing their concerns, alcohol and drugs are being allowed to spread unchecked. We need a united stand against this menace. I appeal to every responsible citizen to join hands in this campaign and ensure a safer future for our next generations,” she said.
Referring to the heavy police presence outside the PDP office, Mufti made it clear that the party’s intention was solely to raise awareness and seek public cooperation. “We are not here to create any law-and-order situation. Our objective is simple—to urge the people of J&K to say no to alcohol and drugs. This issue needs urgent intervention, and we will continue advocating for a complete prohibition on liquor,” she asserted.
She also urged the Union Territory and Central governments to take inspiration from states like Bihar, Gujarat, and Nagaland, which have successfully implemented alcohol bans without affecting their tourism industries. “The argument that banning alcohol would impact tourism is flawed. Several states in India have shown that prohibition can be successfully enforced without harming economic activities. J&K, with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, should also be declared an alcohol-free region,” she emphasized.
The signature campaign is expected to gain momentum in the coming days, with PDP leaders and supporters reaching out to people across the Union Territory to garner maximum support for the cause.
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