Police removal of anti-alcohol hoardings has stirred holler in the valley

A fresh controversy erupted in Kashmir after police removed the anti-alcohol hoardings erected by groups that have advocated for a liquor ban. This action drew furious responses from activists, religious organizations, and various political parties, who termed it a fresh effort to stifle public opinion against alcohol consumption.

These hoardings, installed in different parts of Kashmir, carried messages regarding the social and moral consequences of alcohol consumption. A large number of religious and social groups in Kashmir had been vocally demanding prohibition as it culminated against the aesthetic and religious values of the region. The removal of these messages is bound to either stall or revitalize the ongoing debate.

Supporters of the liquor ban condemned the police action as an infringement of their right to express public concerns. Leaders from different organizations demanded justice from authorities, asking why the anti-alcohol campaign is brought down while alcohol consumption is seen as a social evil.

However, the police said that these hoardings were taken off restricted by law. They asserted that while everyone has the right to express his opinion, any public campaign needs to adhere to the legal requirements.

This incident has reignited the debate as to whether liquor should be banned in Kashmir. While the supporters are in favor of prohibition, some others believe that it would affect tourism and state revenues. While the debate continues, the hoarding removals did further polarize the debate into followers and opponents of alcohol consumption in the valley.