The issue of liquor sales in Jammu and Kashmir has ignited a political controversy, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah asserting that alcohol consumption is a personal choice and not mandated by the government. His remarks came in response to a question about the union territory's liquor policy amidst a 100-day anti-drug campaign. Abdullah stated that liquor shops exist for individuals whose religions permit alcohol consumption, emphasizing that no government has ever banned such establishments in the region. This stance has drawn criticism from opposition parties, particularly the People's Democratic Party (PDP), whose leader Iltija Mufti accused the government of failing to respect the cultural values of the Muslim-majority population. Abdullah's comments have been met with mixed reactions, with some party members and critics calling for the closure of liquor shops to curb youth alcohol consumption. In light of the backlash, Abdullah later admitted that his comments may have been a mistake, asserting that while he does not promote alcohol, he acknowledges its regulated presence in the region. The discussion on alcohol sales is intertwined with broader concerns about drug addiction among the youth in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly those studying in neighboring states.