Who is forcing youth to consume alcohol?”: CM Omar on demand for liquor ban Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah sparked a fresh debate over the demand for a liquor ban after questioning claims that the government was encouraging alcohol consumption among youth.Responding to calls for prohibition in J&K, Omar Abdullah said, “Who is forcing youth to consume alcohol? Has anyone forced you? People are going to shops on their own choice,” while defending the government’s stand against a complete liquor ban. The Chief Minister maintained that prohibition could lead to the rise of illegal liquor trade, smuggling, black markets, and health risks from spurious alcohol. He also warned that a blanket ban may negatively impact tourism, hospitality businesses, and employment linked to the sector. The remarks triggered sharp reactions from religious groups and opposition voices, who argued that liquor consumption is harming society and demanded stricter action against alcohol sales in the Union Territory.

Syed Owais Feroz Qadri

Local News Reporter खानयार, श्रीनगर, जम्मू और कश्मीर•

1 hr ago

Who is forcing youth to consume alcohol?”: CM Omar on demand for liquor ban Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah sparked a fresh debate over the demand for a liquor ban after questioning claims that the government was encouraging alcohol consumption among youth.Responding to calls for prohibition in J&K, Omar Abdullah said, “Who is forcing youth to consume alcohol? Has anyone forced you? People are going to shops on their own choice,” while defending the government’s stand against a complete liquor ban. The Chief Minister maintained that prohibition could lead to the rise of illegal liquor trade, smuggling, black markets, and health risks from spurious alcohol. He also warned that a blanket ban may negatively impact tourism, hospitality businesses, and employment linked to the sector. The remarks triggered sharp reactions from religious groups and opposition voices, who argued that liquor consumption is harming society and demanded stricter action against alcohol sales in the Union Territory.