SRINAGAR: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Thursday called for a blanket ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir, while criticising the National Conference for what he described as inconsistent positions on the issue.
Speaking to reporters, Bukhari said the government should take a clear stand on alcohol policy.
“There should be a ban on liquor. Other states such as Gujarat have implemented restrictions,” he said.
The remarks come amid an ongoing debate in Jammu and Kashmir over the regulation of alcohol and its social and economic implications.
Bukhari alleged that the National Conference frequently changes its stance on the issue.
“They change their position every day,” he said, without elaborating further.
He suggested that if necessary, liquor could be provided to tourists under a controlled permit system at designated points such as airports and railway stations.
“We are not solely dependent on tourism,” he added.[KNT]
