Political Tensions Rise in Jammu and Kashmir Over Liquor Sales
Kashmir liquor row intensifies as BJP issues ‘lockdown’ warning to Omar Govt: ‘No liquor stores to open on this land’
Hindustan Times
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Political tensions in Jammu and Kashmir have escalated as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) threatens to shut down liquor stores, criticizing the National Conference (NC) government for prioritizing revenue over cultural values. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defends the administration's approach, stating it allows legal access for those whose beliefs permit alcohol consumption.
- 01The BJP organized a protest in Srinagar, demanding a complete ban on liquor sales in Kashmir.
- 02BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur accused the NC government of undermining local traditions and values by allowing liquor sales.
- 03Omar Abdullah stated that no previous government has imposed a complete ban on liquor outlets and emphasized the need for legal access for certain religious beliefs.
- 04The NC government claims to have measures in place to prevent liquor consumption from affecting youth.
- 05The BJP's stance has turned the liquor issue into a significant political flashpoint in Jammu and Kashmir.
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Political tensions in Jammu and Kashmir intensified as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the National Conference (NC) government over its stance on liquor sales. During a protest in Srinagar, BJP leaders, including spokesperson Altaf Thakur, warned of direct action against liquor outlets, stating that the government was prioritizing revenue over the region's cultural and religious values. Thakur emphasized that the BJP opposes all forms of intoxicants and would take steps to shut down liquor stores if necessary. In response, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defended the government's position, explaining that it allows legal access to alcohol for individuals whose religious beliefs permit it. Abdullah noted that no previous administration had imposed a complete ban on liquor outlets and highlighted measures taken to prevent youth from being influenced by alcohol consumption. This issue has emerged as a significant political flashpoint, with the BJP framing it as a matter of protecting local traditions against the NC government's policies.
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The ongoing confrontation over liquor sales could influence local policies and community values in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly regarding youth and cultural sensitivities.
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