Er Rashid seeks blanket liquor ban in J&K

New Delhi, Dec 3: Jailed Member of Parliament, Sheikh Abdul Rashid Wednesday said that there shall be a blanket ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir.
The MP said making J&K a ‘dry state’ must not be labelled as anti-national or anti-social.
Er Rashid during the Lok Sabha proceedings, said that the opposition of people against the opening of new liquor shops in J&K should be taken seriously instead of dismissing it.
“Whenever the religious clerics, social activists or the common people raise their voice, they are unfortunately being labelled as anti-social and anti-nationals. Such voices should be encouraged because they intend to safeguard the society,” Rashid said.
He acknowledged the government’s revenue-related compulsions but questioned the logic behind increasing taxes on tobacco and liquor products.
“The assumption that higher duties reduce consumption is not true. People continue to drink regardless of price. If there is national consensus that addiction harms society, then decisive action is needed,” he said.
The MP also said, “Celebrities visiting Jammu and Kashmir for alcohol-free campaigns is highly appreciable. The region should move towards becoming a dry state.”
He claimed that a bill to make J&K addiction-free was earlier introduced in the Assembly and enjoys support across parties.
“If we want to make Jammu and Kashmir liquor-addiction-free, then there is a need for the support of those who want a blanket ban on alcohol and other narcotic substances. Let Bihar not be the only example—let other states take inspiration from J&K,” Rashid appealed to the Union Government and Lieutenant Governor administration.
He urged the ruling government to work toward eliminating substance abuse at the national level. “The government says ‘Modi Ji Hai Toh Mumkin Hai’. So make India addiction-free by 2039. We will salute you,” he added. (KNO)