Jammu, Feb 10 (JKNS): The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday clarified that there is no proposal under consideration to declare the Union Territory if J&K as a dry state, citing serious economic, security, public health and employment-related concerns.
In a written reply to a question by MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia in the Legislative Assembly as per news agency JKNS, The government informed the House that imposing prohibition could lead to a large-scale increase in liquor smuggling from neighbouring states and Union Territories, besides encouraging the rise of illicit liquor and illegal distillation, which poses grave risks to public health.
It said that destruction of 13.65 lakh kilograms and 16.3 thousand litres of illicit liquor during 2024–25 and 2025–26 (till January 2026) itself highlights the dangers associated with spurious liquor.
The reply further warned that prohibition could strengthen liquor mafias, leading to underground networks, money laundering and hawala activities, thereby adversely impacting security and the economy.
The government said that thousands of people engaged in manufacturing, wholesale, retail, hospitality and transport sectors—particularly youth—would lose their livelihoods if prohibition is enforced. It also noted that the transport sector would be severely affected as a large number of vehicles depend on liquor trade for business.
The Finance Department stated that industrial loss would be another fallout, as bottle manufacturing units would suffer due to reduced demand.
Highlighting tourism-related concerns, the government said that prohibition may have a negative impact on tourism, as many tourists expect access to alcohol and may prefer visiting neighbouring states, leading to reduced tourist inflow.
It added that the hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants and resorts, relies significantly on liquor sales to enhance customer experience and generate revenue, and a ban could hurt occupancy and earnings. The reply also pointed out that many tourists prefer hotels with bars while making online bookings, and prohibition could place J&K at a disadvantage.
The government further said that alcohol regulation involves complex social, economic, ethical and public health trade-offs, and that revenue-neutral balance through taxation helps generate revenue while discouraging excessive consumption. (JKNS)
