Srinagar- Jailed Member of Parliament Sheikh Abdul Rashid on Wednesday demanded a blanket ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that making the Union Territory a dry region should not be viewed through a political or anti national lens.

Speaking during the Lok Sabha proceedings, Rashid, currently lodged in Delhi's Tihar Jail, said the strong public opposition to the opening of new liquor shops in J&K must be respected instead of being dismissed as disruptive.

“Whenever religious clerics, social activists or common people raise their voice, they are unfortunately being labelled anti social and anti national. Such voices should be encouraged because they intend to safeguard society,” Rashid said.

He acknowledged the government's revenue concerns but questioned the logic of increasing taxes on tobacco and liquor while allowing their availability.

“The assumption that higher duties reduce consumption is not true. People continue to drink regardless of price. If there is national consensus that addiction harms society, then decisive action is needed,” he said.

Rashid appreciated alcohol free campaigns by visiting celebrities in the region and said Jammu and Kashmir should lead by example.

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