Srinagar: Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday called for a complete ban on alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the government’s anti-drug campaign contradicted the continued operation of liquor businesses in the Union Territory.
Speaking to reporters, the Mirwaiz said a society could not become drug-free unless all forms of intoxicants were prohibited.
“There is a contradiction. On one side, a campaign against drugs is underway, while on the other side liquor outlets remain operational,” he said.
The Mirwaiz said the government should review its policy on liquor trade and argued that prohibition was neither impractical nor unprecedented.
“We are not demanding something unachievable. There are several states and regions in India where liquor consumption is banned,” he said, referring to states such as Bihar and the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
He also questioned the argument that liquor trade was necessary for revenue generation, saying the issue should not be viewed purely through an economic lens.
“To look at liquor business only from the prism of revenue is not viable,” he said.
The remarks come amid an intensifying political and social debate in Jammu and Kashmir over liquor trade and demands from religious groups and sections of civil society for stricter restrictions or complete prohibition.
Commenting on the ongoing global energy crisis and tensions involving Iran, the Mirwaiz expressed hope that the conflict would end soon and urged minimal consumption of resources during the period of uncertainty.
“Let us hope the war ends. Resources should be used minimally,” he said.
The Mirwaiz also criticized the United States over the conflict involving Iran, alleging that Washington had imposed war on the world, particularly targeting Tehran.
He said Iran’s proposals aimed at ending the conflict were “justified,” while accusing the United States of adopting an inflexible approach.
The Mirwaiz added that Iran was capable of defending itself but was simultaneously seeking an end to hostilities. [KNT]
