The movement is not about restricting personal freedoms but about protecting families, reducing crime, and improving public health. If implemented with careful planning, the liquor ban can contribute to a more prosperous and harmonious Kashmir
By: DR FIAZ MAQBOOL FAZILI
Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its rich cultural heritage and deeply rooted traditions. The Kashmiri society has historically been modest, God-fearing, and deeply respectful of its religious and moral values. In recent years, however, there has been a growing demand from the civil society for a ban on liquor in the region. This demand is not merely a religious or political issue but is rooted in a broader concern for the moral, social, financial, and health hazards associated with alcohol consumption. The voices of concern for a liquor ban in Kashmir are a reflection of the civil society’s desire to preserve its cultural integrity, protect public health, and uphold its moral and religious values irrespective of whether any politician asks for it or not.
Kashmir is a region where religion plays a significant role in shaping the lives of its people. The majority of the population is following the faith of Islam which explicitly prohibits the consumption of alcohol. The Quran describes alcohol as “the work of Satan” and warns believers against its consumption, citing its potential to create enmity, hatred, and distraction from the remembrance of God. Similarly, other religious communities in Kashmir, including Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and Buddhists, also discourage the consumption of alcohol on moral and spiritual grounds. For instance, Sikhism strictly prohibits intoxicants, including alcohol, as they are believed to cloud the mind and hinder spiritual growth. Hinduism, while not universally prohibiting alcohol, often associates its consumption with negative moral and social consequences.
The demand for a liquor ban in Kashmir is, therefore, deeply rooted in the not only in religious but moral fabric of the society. It is a call to align public policy with the values that have traditionally guided the lives of the people. For a society that prides itself on its modesty and God-fearing nature, the presence of liquor shops and the availability of alcohol are seen as a direct affront to its moral and spiritual ethos.
Here, family ties and social harmony are highly valued and the impact of alcohol on social cohesion would be a matter of grave concern. Beyond the religious and moral dimensions, the demand for a liquor ban is also driven by the recognition of the social hazards associated with alcohol consumption.
Alcohol is often linked to a range of social problems, including domestic violence, broken families, and increased crime rates. It also contributes to the breakdown of family structures, as individuals struggling with addiction often neglect their responsibilities towards their families
The financial implications of alcohol consumption are another significant concern for Kashmiri civil society. In a region where many families are already struggling to make ends meet, the financial burden of alcohol addiction can be devastating, as individuals spend a substantial portion of their income on purchasing liquor. This not only affects the economic stability of households but also leads to a cycle of poverty and debt.
Moreover, alcohol consumption is frequently associated with anti-social behaviour, including public disorder, vandalism, drunk driving, traffic accidents and even violent crimes. For a society that values peace and harmony, the social consequences of alcohol are simply too high to ignore.
The belief that moderate alcohol consumption benefits heart health is misleading and widely propagated by the media. In reality, alcohol poses serious health risks, including liver diseases like cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is also known to increase the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, esophagus, and breast. Additionally, alcohol negatively affects brain health, causing cognitive impairment, memory loss, and contributing to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.
In Kashmir, where healthcare resources are limited, these risks make alcohol a significant public health concern, reinforcing the civil society’s call for a liquor ban. Moreover, alcohol has a profound impact on brain health. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and even permanent brain damage. It also increases the risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. For a society that values mental and physical well-being, the health hazards of alcohol are a compelling reason to support a liquor ban.
The Gujarat Model: A Case Study Of Ethical Tourism Over Alcohol-Driven Tourism. The demand for a liquor ban in Kashmir is often compared to the Gujarat model, where the sale and consumption of alcohol have been prohibited since 1960. Proponents of the Gujarat model argue that the ban has contributed to lower rates of alcohol-related crimes, improved public health, and preserved the moral and cultural values of the society. While the Gujarat model has its critics, particularly in terms of its impact on tourism revenue, it is important to recognize that the primary goal of such a ban is to protect the well-being of the society.
In the context of Kashmir, the argument that a liquor ban would negatively impact tourism revenue is not a compelling reason to oppose the ban. Tourism in Kashmir is primarily driven by its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and hospitality, rather than the availability of alcohol. Moreover, the long-term social, moral, and health benefits of a liquor ban far outweigh the potential short-term economic gains from alcohol sales.
The Wisdom in Prohibition -A Call for Moral and Social Responsibility
The demand for a liquor ban in Kashmir is a reflection of the society’s commitment to preserving its moral, social, and cultural values. It is a call for public policy that prioritizes the well-being of the people over economic considerations. The moral, social, financial, and health hazards associated with alcohol consumption are too significant to ignore, and the religious teachings of the region’s diverse communities further reinforce the need for a ban. Scientific evidence, along with religious teachings, underscores the dangers of alcohol consumption. While moderate drinking is often portrayed as beneficial, the long-term risks far exceed any potential advantages. Instead of drinking to maintain heart health, individuals should adopt healthier alternatives such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management through spiritual practices.
Islam’s prohibition of alcohol is rooted in profound wisdom, aiming to protect individuals and society from its harmful consequences. A true Islamic society discourages behaviors that lead to self-destruction, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support to lead a fulfilling and healthy life—free from the grip of alcohol. Kashmir’s civil society is not alone in this demand. Across the world, communities are increasingly recognizing the detrimental effects of alcohol and are taking steps to curb its consumption. The Gujarat model, while not without its challenges, offers a valuable example of how a liquor ban can contribute to a healthier, more harmonious society.
The demand for a liquor ban in Kashmir is a testament to the power of civil society in addressing social issues beyond political and religious divisions. While challenges exist, the overwhelming support from medical professionals, women’s organizations, youth groups, and religious leaders demonstrates a collective desire for a healthier, more stable society.
The movement is not about restricting personal freedoms but about protecting families, reducing crime, and improving public health. If implemented with careful planning, the liquor ban can contribute to a more prosperous and harmonious Kashmir. By prioritizing the well-being of society over short-term economic gains, civil society has set an example of how unity and collective action can drive meaningful change.
drfiazfazili@gmail.com
The writer is a medical doctor, senior columnist, blogger and Review Editor of ‘International Journal of Emergency, Trauma, Shock (JETS).’
