Calls for Immediate Government Intervention to Stop Proposed Liquor Shop in Batmaloo
Iram Iqbal Shah | Kashmir Pen
Srinagar | July 04, 2025: In a strongly worded address during Friday prayers at Srinagar’s historic Jama Masjid, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq raised serious concerns over the reported move to open a liquor shop in Batmaloo. He termed the development as a direct assault on the religious, cultural, and societal fabric of Jammu and Kashmir, calling on the government to take immediate action or face public outrage.
Quoting a public notice issued by the Batmaloo traders and business community announcing a three-day shutdown in protest, Mirwaiz voiced the growing anger among residents. “This is very disturbing and totally unacceptable to the people of Kashmir. It is a deliberate attempt to ruin our people and our future generations,” he said.
Mirwaiz further lambasted the authorities for allegedly promoting liquor in a Muslim-majority region, despite the ongoing battle against drug addiction that has already taken a toll on Kashmiri youth. “Instead of curbing social evils, they are institutionalising them. Why don’t they promote liquor in Gujarat, a dry state? Why always J&K?” he asked.
He urged the Omar Abdullah-led government to act immediately and prevent the opening of the liquor outlet. “It is the government’s duty to ensure such proposals are nipped in the bud. If they fail, the ulema, civil society, and the public will be compelled to protest,” he warned.
The statement comes amid growing public resentment and calls for upholding Kashmir’s unique socio-cultural identity, which many believe is being eroded under the guise of development and tourism promotion.
The Batmaloo traders’ decision to shut down their businesses in protest marks a significant expression of collective dissent, signaling wider unrest if the issue remains unaddressed | Kashmir Pen
