NC counters PDP on Liquor ban debate
KINS DESK
Srinagar, May 11 (KINS): National Conference chief spokesperson and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Monday criticised the Peoples Democratic Party over its recent remarks on liquor ban in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the party should first revisit its own position on the issue during its tenure in government.
Speaking to reporters in Budgam, Sadiq referred to statements made by former PDP Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu in the Assembly, where he had reportedly stated that alcohol would not be banned during the PDP-led government.
“Those speaking about a liquor ban today are the same people whose Finance Minister had categorically stated in the Assembly that alcohol would not be banned. Some of their leaders have themselves spoken casually about drinking, and now they are trying to lecture others,” Sadiq said.
The National Conference leader said that the party does not support alcohol consumption and reiterated its opposition to drinking and promotion of liquor.
“We are Muslims, and no Muslim supports alcohol consumption. The National Conference is completely opposed to drinking and to encouraging it in any manner. We do not want alcohol to be consumed here,” he added.
Sadiq’s remarks came in response to comments made by PDP leader Iltija Mufti, who had recently questioned Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the liquor policy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Iltija Mufti had said that if states such as Bihar and Gujarat could enforce prohibition, similar measures could also be considered in Jammu and Kashmir. She had also stated that no religion encourages alcohol consumption.(KINS)
