SRINAGAR: Jammu Kashmir National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday warned that the region could be heading towards a fuel and gas shortage, cautioning that it may push the economy into a phase of “distress and uncertainty”.
Addressing reporters in Srinagar, Abdullah said rising global tensions and ongoing geopolitical conflicts were likely to aggravate the situation further. He said the region was moving towards a serious crisis and stressed that prolonged instability could have unpredictable and severe economic consequences, calling for urgent efforts to address the emerging challenges.
Abdullah also commented on the issue of alcohol consumption and prohibition in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that restrictions alone would not eliminate drinking habits. He said individuals who wish to consume alcohol would continue to find access to it even if sales were banned in the region, and noted that any such prohibition would also affect government revenue.
He said the debate over liquor should be approached practically, recalling earlier discussions during the tenure of former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who supported prohibition. Abdullah referred to remarks attributed to his father, Sheikh Abdullah, suggesting that Jammu and Kashmir could consider stopping liquor sales if the Centre compensated for the loss in revenue. He added that with adequate financial support from the government, liquor sales could be discontinued swiftly.
Criticising those opposing liquor outlets, Abdullah questioned why objections were being raised now when such establishments had earlier been permitted in various areas. He alleged that some groups were attempting to build pressure through public campaigns, asserting that such efforts would not influence his party’s stance.
