Budgam, May 13 (JKNS): Chairman of Rehmatan Lil Aalmeen Foundation International, Sheikh Firdous Ali has called for a complete ban on alcohol in Jammu & Kashmir, stating that the ongoing campaign against drugs cannot succeed unless serious measures are taken against all intoxicating substances, particularly alcohol.
He said that the “Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir” campaign initiated by the Lieutenant Governor is a commendable step and deserves appreciation. However, he questioned why silence is being maintained on the issue of alcohol while a large-scale campaign is being carried out against drugs and other intoxicants across the region.
Sheikh Firdous Ali was reacting to the recent statement made by Omar Abdullah in which he said that the government is not forcing people to visit liquor shops and that people who do not consume alcohol would not start drinking merely because liquor shops exist.
Calling the statement unfortunate and irresponsible on such a sensitive social and religious issue, Sheikh Firdous Ali said that remarks of this nature from a person holding the office of Chief Minister are a matter of serious concern.
He stated:
“On one hand, the government is running a campaign against drugs, while on the other hand liquor shops continue to operate openly. Unless every form of intoxicating substance is restricted, society cannot truly become drug-free.”
Sheikh Firdous Ali further said that people had elected the present government with greater hopes that issues such as unemployment, drug abuse, social evils, and challenges faced by youth would be addressed, but on the ground people now feel even more worried.
He added:
“I am not speaking in favour of or against any political party. I am simply expressing the sentiments of common people as an ordinary citizen. We hoped that after the formation of the new government, the lives of youth would improve, unemployment would decrease, and social evils would be controlled, but today the situation appears different.”
He said that the younger generation is increasingly getting trapped in drug addiction, unemployment, and frustration, while parents remain deeply concerned about the future of their sons and daughters.
Sheikh Firdous Ali also remarked that the world today is learning from leaders who respect the emotions, culture, and moral values of their people and take immediate decisions in public interest. Referring to an example from Tamil Nadu, he said that Chief Minister Vijay had reportedly ordered the closure of 717 liquor shops located near religious places and educational institutions soon after assuming office, which he described as a positive step reflecting respect for public sentiment.
He appealed to the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to take immediate and serious measures for the protection of youth, education, employment, and social values so that public trust can be restored and a positive atmosphere can be created in society. (JKNS)
