SRINAGAR, Feb 12: Three Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have submitted separate private members’ bills seeking a ban on liquor in J&K.
The legislators include People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA from Kupwara, Mir Mohammad Fayaz; Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) MLA from Langate, Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad and National Conference (NC) MLA from Lal Chowk, Ahsan Pardesi.
Lauding Mir Fayaz’s move, PDP leader Iltija Mufti stated that liquor consumption is a “threat” to society.
“Alcohol consumption is ravaging lives across J&K & presents a grave threat to the very fabric of our society. Since 2019 the issue has been compounded by its easy availability because of the mushrooming of liquor stores. Kudos to PDP MLA @MirMohdFayaz for introducing a private bill seeking a ban on alcohol consumption. Much needed,” she wrote on ‘X’.
NC legislator from Lal Chowk, Ahsan Pardesi, while informing the bill, said that the unchecked sale of alcohol disregards the religious and cultural ethos of Kashmir.
“Our heritage has always stood against intoxicants, and this bill is a step towards preserving those values. Alcohol consumption has never been an intrinsic part of the Valley’s social fabric, making its presence an anomaly,” he said.
He further asserted that alcohol “fuels” crime, moral degradation, and addiction, especially among the youth.
Notably, if allowed for introduction, the bills will be discussed during the upcoming budget session starting March 3.
AIP leader, MLA from Langate, and brother of MP Er Rashid, Sheikh Khursheed, said that he was the first MLA to submit a private members’ bill seeking a complete ban on liquor.
“MLA Langate, Sheikh Khursheed, was the first to present these important bills in the jammu & Kashmir Assembly. We urge everyone to share this as much as possible to set the record straight. The last date for bill submission was 10th February 2025, but Sheikh Khursheed submitted them on 8th February 2025, ahead of anyone else,” said a spokesperson of the party.
He has also submitted a bill seeking a complete ban on online gaming and fantasy leagues in J&K. “These bills tackle serious social issues and are focused on public welfare,” he said.
Meanwhile, reacting to the bills, BJP leader and Chairperson of the J&K Waqf Board, Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, said that youngsters must be protected from the menace of drugs.
She added that if the bill seeking a ban on liquor is introduced in the Assembly, “it would be a welcome step.”
“The aim is to keep our young generation away from drugs because they are lagging behind due to it. It would be good if they are able to bring a bill on this,” she said.
