Srinagar, Feb 15: National Conference legislator Tanvir Sadiq has called for broader consultations before imposing a ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the need to involve all stakeholders in the decision-making process.
Speaking to reporters, Sadiq highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir is a tourist-driven economy, and any blanket ban on liquor could have repercussions on the tourism sector. “This is a tourist state, and we have to assess how such a ban would impact tourists. Many Arab countries also have regulated systems for alcohol,” he noted.
He stressed that all concerned parties, including travel agents and tourism industry representatives, should be taken on board before any final decision is made. “Overall, we stand against liquor trade, but we must ensure that stakeholders, particularly those from the tourism sector, are consulted,” he said.
Sadiq’s remarks come at a time when two legislators including PDP’s Fayaz Mir and NC’s Ahsan Pardesi have submitted private member bills seeking a ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir. The bills are likely to be introduced in the upcoming budget session. [KNT]
