Opening of Wine Shop in Surankote: A Threat to Culture and Public Well-being

Ayaz Mughal

The recent opening of a wine shop in Potha Surankote has ignited a contentious issue that has left the public expressing their anguish. However, this issue extends beyond the mere presence of wine shops; it encompasses the preservation of our collective culture. The accessibility and availability of alcohol in our society are causes for concern. While it is legal, and the government generates significant revenue through taxes, we must consider the value of human lives, families, and culture. Encouraging this culture should not be our aim. In fact, the government has initiated the "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan" (Addiction-Free India Campaign) to combat the widespread consumption of alcohol and other substances. However, the simultaneous opening of wine shops at a large scale seems to contradict this campaign's goals. Can these two ideas truly coexist?  While there may be individuals who choose to consume alcohol, it can never be considered a social norm, nor should it be endorsed as such. If even a single person in society becomes ensnared in the grips of alcohol addiction, it can have a profound impact on others, particularly our children, compromising their safety and well-being.  It is an established fact that alcohol, in any form, poses dangers to health, as evident from the warning labels affixed to its packages. Now, it is up to society to decide whether to allow this culture to flourish or to make concerted efforts to eradicate it. While awareness is undoubtedly essential, it is even more crucial to restrict access to alcohol, particularly for the youth. Even habitual drinkers would not wish for their children to develop the same habit. Parents, who believe that this fire will not burn down their own homes, are gravely mistaken. Parents must be vigilant and observant of their children's behavior before it is too late. In the name of freedom, some parents have granted their children unrestricted liberty, but absolute freedom can have adverse effects. This lack of boundaries may lead to a path with no return, resulting in health issues, cultural and social degradation, incidents of drunk driving, and an increase in crime.  Educational institutions, including colleges, schools, and religious establishments, must play a pivotal role in combating this issue. While society as a whole bears responsibility, women, in particular, must lead the fight against alcohol consumption, as they are disproportionately affected by its consequences.  Even the Supreme Court recognizes the gravity of this issue and has issued directions to halt the granting of licenses for the sale of liquor along national and state highways. However, in Surankote and other areas, wine shops have flagrantly violated these laws by opening right on the highways.  The apex court, in its order, stated that the issuance of licenses for new liquor shops near highways should be ceased. Furthermore, it emphasized that no advertisement for any liquor shop should even be visible from national or state highways. Unfortunately, it seems that these orders have been disregarded and violated in various instances.  The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has repeatedly urged all state governments and union territories to take necessary action to implement these orders effectively.  If the government is willing to facilitate boozers by opening wine shops, then what about those who want to quit this habit? Is it not essential to establish rehabilitation centers to support them? Do they not deserve a chance at recovery? These are critical questions that need to be addressed.  We must strive towards an alcohol-free state. Numerous states, such as Gujarat and Bihar, have successfully imposed complete bans on wine shops. Why not follow their example in Jammu and Kashmir?  The administration must take this issue seriously before allowing more wine shops to infiltrate our society. The concerns raised by the public cannot be ignored, and it is the duty of the authorities to listen and act in the best interest of the community. It is high time to prioritize the well-being and cultural preservation of our society over short-term financial gains. Only through collective efforts and stringent regulations can we hope to build a healthier and more prosperous future for Surankote and beyond.