Srinagar, Feb 22: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) launched a signature campaign on Saturday, advocating for a complete ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir.
The campaign supports a bill introduced by PDP MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz, seeking to prohibit alcohol in the region. Originally planned at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, the event was moved to the party’s headquarters after police prevented access to the venue.
Speaking at the launch, PDP leader Iltija Mufti emphasized the growing concerns over drug and alcohol abuse, warning of their impact on the moral fabric of society. She urged public support, highlighting the increasing number of liquor shops and the easy availability of alcohol in J&K.
Mufti appealed to all political parties, including NC, PC, and BJP, to back the initiative, stressing that the issue is social rather than political. She linked rising unemployment to substance abuse and called for urgent action.
Despite a heavy police presence, Mufti reiterated that the campaign was peaceful and aimed at spreading awareness. She urged both the UT and Central governments to declare J&K an alcohol-free region, similar to Bihar, Gujarat, and Nagaland.
