J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Clarifies Liquor Ban Stance After Criticism

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Monday that his comment on the liquor ban in the Union Territory was a mistake, as it was twisted by the opposition. Abdullah claimed that liquor shops are intended only for those whose religion permits the consumption of alcohol.

Abdullah's initial statement on Sunday sparked criticism, given his own stand on the opening of liquor shops before elections. The chief minister refused to respond to a question on banning liquor in Jammu and Kashmir, asking if anyone was being forced to drink.

The opposition, including PDP leader Iltija Mufti, accused Abdullah of a U-turn on his stand on liquor in the union territory. Mufti questioned how Hindu-majority states like Gujarat and Bihar banned alcohol successfully without a whimper.

The National Conference hit back at the PDP, with chief spokesman Tanvir Sadiq saying that the PDP founder used to drink alcohol. Additionally, Aga Ruhullah, National Conference MP from Srinagar, demanded a complete ban on liquor in J&K, terming Abdullah's remarks as illogical.

The Jammu and Kashmir government will likely face continued criticism and debate on the issue of liquor shops in the Union Territory. The chief minister's clarification may not be enough to quell the opposition's demands for a complete ban on liquor.