Jammu and Kashmir Liquor Ban Proposal

The ongoing discourse in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) regarding the ban on liquor has gained momentum ahead of the upcoming Budget Session of the Assembly, scheduled to begin on March 3. This issue is particularly critical given the region's current substance abuse crisis.

Substance Abuse Crisis

• J&K is facing a severe substance abuse issue, described by the former DGP as a "bigger threat than militancy."
• In 2023, reports highlighted that an addict visits the Srinagar OPD every 12 minutes, emphasizing the severity of the crisis.

Public Consumption and Culture

• Although liquor sale and consumption are not banned in J&K, public consumption is socially taboo, especially in the Valley.
• Under the former Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), "misconduct in public by a drunken person" was punishable.
• Recent social media posts have shown drunk tourists, generating public outrage, particularly after incidents like urination in the Dal Lake.