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BJP vows Kashmir liquor lock down if Omar Abdullah govt won’t halt alcohol licensing
Politics
Published on 15 May 2026
BJP threatens to physically shut liquor outlets itself
Jammu and Kashmir politics hit a new high in Srinagar as the BJP accused the Omar Abdullah-led National Conference government of prioritising “revenue over morality” by allowing liquor shops. BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur warned that if licensing policy isn’t reversed, party workers will physically shut outlets and keep protests going. The BJP also demanded a complete ban on sale and purchase in the Kashmir division. Omar Abdullah defended the approach, saying no new shops are opening and alcohol is only permitted where religious beliefs allow choice.
- BJP staged a protest in Srinagar against wine shops
- Spokesperson Altaf Thakur accused NC of “revenue over morality”
- BJP warned it would “lock down” liquor stores physically
- NC said it has not opened any new liquor shops
- Omar Abdullah said shops cater to those whose beliefs permit alcohol
- Both sides cite youth protection, but disagree on licensing
Read the full story at The Economic Times
This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on 
The Economic Times