Don’t score political points on alcohol ban debate: Hakeem Yaseen

• Asks religious scholars and civil society to spread awareness among youth
• Stresses issue should be addressed with sincerity, not electoral motives

SRINAGAR:  People’s Democratic Front President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Saturday said there should be no politics over the issue of banning alcohol in Kashmir, asserting that it is the moral responsibility of the government to act in accordance with the sentiments and aspirations of the people.

In a statement issued here, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen said political parties should refrain from trying to score political points on such a sensitive social issue. He said the matter concerns the moral and cultural fabric of society and must be addressed with seriousness and sincerity rather than political confrontation.

He said no religion permits or encourages alcohol consumption and added that religious leaders, scholars and social organisations must also play their role in spreading awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol on society, particularly among the youth.

Yaseen stated that Kashmir has a unique religious, cultural and social identity, and the government must respect public sentiment by taking concrete steps towards banning alcohol in the Valley. He said increasing concerns among people regarding the growing availability of liquor cannot be ignored any longer.

The PDF leader further said that safeguarding society from social evils is a collective responsibility and called upon all sections of society to work together for the welfare of future generations.

He also appealed to the government to take effective measures to curb alcohol sale and consumption in Jammu and Kashmir while ensuring that the issue is not politicised for narrow electoral gains.