BJP Faces Questions Over Silence on Liquor Outlets in Jammu Amid Kashmir Protest
||Black and White Digital News||
||Parvinder Singh May 15,2026 ||
Srinagar /Jammu: Political debate has intensified in Jammu and Kashmir after BJP leaders from Kashmir staged a protest outside the Chief Minister’s residence demanding a ban on liquor sales and declaring Jammu and Kashmir a “Dry Union Territory.” However, the absence of similar protests by BJP leaders from Jammu division has sparked criticism and raised questions over the party’s stand on the issue.
Several BJP leaders from Kashmir recently demonstrated against the operation of wine shops in the Valley, accusing the administration of promoting liquor culture in the region. Protesters demanded immediate closure of liquor outlets and urged the government to respect the sentiments of the people.
At the same time, political observers and sections of civil society have questioned why BJP leaders from Jammu division, despite having 29 MLAs in the Assembly, have remained largely silent on the issue of liquor outlets operating in Jammu.
Critics allege that BJP leaders from Jammu are frequently seen protesting on issues related to encroachments, drug trafficking, and law and order, but have not taken a clear stand regarding liquor shops allegedly functioning near religious places and educational institutions.
Recently, BJP leaders including MLA Vikram Randhawa and MLA Arvind Gupta were seen raising concerns over encroachments and alleged involvement of a particular community in drug trafficking. However, opposition voices and social activists argue that public concerns regarding liquor outlets have not received similar political attention.
Adding to the controversy, several videos related to wine shops in Jammu and Kashmir have gone viral on social media in recent weeks. The videos allegedly show overcharging, poor quality liquor, and irregularities in liquor sales. Consumers and residents have demanded strict inspections and action against violators.
Despite complaints from the public, no major action has reportedly been taken against the concerned liquor outlets, raising questions over the functioning and integrity of the departments responsible for regulation and monitoring.
Many residents have also expressed concern over the increasing number of liquor outlets and their proximity to sensitive locations such as schools, colleges, temples, shrines, and residential areas. Citizens are demanding transparent policies, regular inspections, and strict enforcement of rules governing liquor sales.
Meanwhile, senior BJP leaders have been accused by political opponents of focusing more on personal attacks against National Conference ministers in media interactions rather than highlighting pressing public issues affecting people on the ground.
The issue has now triggered wider political discussion across Jammu and Kashmir, with various social, political, and religious groups demanding clarity from all parties on their stand regarding liquor policies and public welfare concerns in the Union Territory.
