Srinagar, May 11: Peoples Democratic Party Leader Iltija Mufti on Monday criticised Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over his remarks on alcohol consumption and accused the National Conference government of changing its stand on several issues since 2024.
Addressing reporters in Srinagar, as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), Iltija said the government had taken different positions on reservation, Urdu language and alcohol policy.
Referring to Omar Abdullah’s recent remarks on alcohol, she said the Chief Minister stated that the government was not forcing youngsters to consume alcohol.
“If this logic is accepted, then drug peddlers can also say they are not forcing anyone to consume drugs,” she said.
Iltija said Jammu and Kashmir was facing increasing cases of drug abuse and the government should take responsibility in addressing the issue.
She also objected to linking alcohol consumption with religion and said no religion supports intoxication.
“Whether it is Islam, Hinduism or Sikhism, no religion promotes alcohol or drugs,” she said.
The PDP leader said alcohol is prohibited in Islam and accused the government of ignoring the sentiments of the Muslim-majority population of Jammu and Kashmir.
She questioned why the government could not consider restrictions on alcohol when states like Bihar and Gujarat have already imposed bans.
“If Omar Abdullah wants, he can bring a bill in the Assembly on alcohol prohibition,” she said.
Iltija also accused the government of failing to address unemployment and drug addiction among youth.
She alleged irregularities in recruitment and claimed that appointments were being made through backdoor methods.
“The government promised jobs to youth, but there are allegations that jobs are being sold,” she said.
On Urdu, Iltija said the language is part of the culture of Jammu and Kashmir and criticised the government over changes related to recruitment requirements.
She also accused the National Conference of following the agenda of the BJP and RSS on issues related to reservation and language policy.
Iltija appealed to the administration to launch action against alcohol and drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.(KNS)
