“Political parties in J&K are prioritizing public protests and blame games over democratic dialogue. Morality demands that they resolve alcohol ban debate through formal policy discussions in Legislative Assembly and not on the streets.”
The growing debate over the ban on alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir has once again exposed how political parties often prefer street-level confrontation and blame games over meaningful democratic discussion. Instead of turning the issue into a contest of protests, accusations and political point-scoring, parties must take the matter to the right forum — the Assembly, public consultations and serious policy discussions. The question of alcohol consumption and sale in Jammu and Kashmir is not merely a political slogan. It is linked to social concerns, religious sentiments, public health and the cultural identity of the region. Such a sensitive issue demands maturity, responsibility and constructive dialogue from political leaders. Unfortunately, what the public is witnessing today is more noise than seriousness. Every political party has the democratic right to express its opinion. However, staging protests against each other outside offices and residences will not provide any practical solution. If parties genuinely believe that alcohol should be banned or regulated, they should collectively raise the issue in the Assembly, bring legislation, hold debates and engage with stakeholders including religious scholars, civil society members, health experts and youth groups. The Assembly is the highest democratic institution where laws are debated and decisions are made. Important social matters cannot be resolved through slogan shouting or attempts to corner political opponents. Public emotions may be mobilised temporarily through protests, but governance requires legal and administrative action, not political theatre. There is also a need to avoid hypocrisy in the ongoing debate. Many leaders speak strongly in public while remaining silent when real policymaking opportunities arise. If political parties are sincere about the issue, they should clearly present their stand before the people and support practical measures instead of using the matter for electoral gains. At the same time, the discussion should not become entirely emotional or reactionary. Alcohol abuse is undeniably a serious social problem affecting many families, particularly the youth. Concerns regarding addiction, domestic violence, crime and health issues deserve attention.
“Rather than exploitative political protests, Jammu and Kashmir requires serious democratic discourse and accountable governance to address alcohol regulation. Effective solutions must balance public sentiment with education and constructive policymaking, moving beyond competitive publicity to achieve a socially responsible consensus.”
Religious and cultural sensitivities in Kashmir also make the issue more significant than in many other regions. These realities cannot simply be ignored. However, any decision regarding a ban must also consider legal, economic and enforcement challenges. Blanket bans in different parts of the country have often produced mixed results, sometimes leading to black markets and illegal trade. Therefore, the government must approach the issue carefully, transparently and after broad consultation. Religious leaders and civil society organisations also have an important role to play. Social awareness, counselling, rehabilitation and education are equally necessary. No law alone can solve a social problem unless society itself participates in reform. Instead of merely demanding bans, there should also be efforts to educate young people about the harmful effects of substance abuse and promote healthier lifestyles. The current atmosphere of political confrontation is helping nobody. It is only deepening divisions while distracting from genuine policymaking. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve clarity, seriousness and accountability from their leaders. Political parties must stop treating every issue as an opportunity for publicity and instead focus on responsible governance. If there is genuine public sentiment regarding alcohol regulation or prohibition, the government should not ignore it. But equally, opposition parties should contribute constructively through democratic institutions rather than protests designed primarily for headlines. Sensitive social issues require wisdom, dialogue and consensus-building — not competitive politics. The alcohol debate in Jammu and Kashmir must move beyond street politics and enter the halls of serious democratic discussion. Only then can a balanced, lawful and socially responsible solution emerge.
