Political Tensions Emerge Over Alcohol Sales in Jammu and Kashmir
A political storm has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir over the sale of alcohol, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defending the practice while facing backlash from opposition parties and even members of his own National Conference. The controversy arose during a press conference related to a 100-day anti-drug campaign, where Abdullah emphasized personal choice in alcohol consumption. Critics, including PDP leader Iltija Mufti, argue that the government should respect the cultural sensitivities of the Muslim-majority population and consider a ban on alcohol, similar to measures taken in other states. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities of governance in a region grappling with addiction issues.
May 12, 2026, 18:16 IST
Political Debate Surrounds Alcohol Sales in Jammu and Kashmir
In Jammu and Kashmir, a political clash has erupted regarding the sale of alcohol in the union territory. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and many members of his National Conference party are defending the sales, while opposition parties and even a member from his own party are opposing it. The controversy intensified following Abdullah's response to a journalist's question about the 2026 alcohol policy during a press conference on Sunday, which was part of the government's 100-day anti-drug campaign. Abdullah stated that individuals choose to consume alcohol voluntarily and that the government does not compel anyone to visit liquor stores. This sparked the ongoing debate, although discussions about addiction and alcohol consumption in Jammu and Kashmir have been prevalent for some time.
Omar further explained that these stores cater to those whose religions permit alcohol consumption. No government in Jammu and Kashmir has ever imposed a ban on these outlets. His remarks drew criticism from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and a member of his own party from Srinagar. PDP leader Iltija Mufti accused the government of frequently reversing its stance on various issues and called for a ban on alcohol in the union territory. Historically, there has never been a complete legal prohibition on the sale or consumption of alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir; previous administrations opted for regulation instead of an outright ban.
Mufti criticized Abdullah's statement as entirely illogical, questioning how a 'drug-free campaign' could coexist with the argument that no one is being encouraged to drink. She pointed out that no religion, whether Islam, Sikhism, or Hinduism, endorses the promotion of intoxicants or alcohol. She cited dry states like Gujarat and Bihar, where predominantly Hindu governments have successfully implemented alcohol bans, questioning why a similar approach is not taken in Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti lamented that as a chief minister in a Muslim-majority region, Abdullah fails to respect the culture and sensitivities of the majority Muslim population.