Starting Tuesday, the sale of liquor has been completely banned in 19 religious locations across Madhya Pradesh under the state’s new excise policy. The decision, announced on January 25, 2025, aims to curb alcohol consumption in spiritually significant areas.
Key Highlights of the Ban:
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47 liquor shops in the affected areas will be shut down.
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The ban applies to major religious sites, including Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot, and Datia, among others.
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The policy also introduces measures to discourage high-intensity liquor consumption and includes a new category of country-made liquor.
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Additionally, the licence fee for liquor outlets has been increased by 20% across the state.
Government’s Perspective:
Madhya Pradesh’s Finance and Excise Minister Jagdish Deoda stated that the move is aimed at bringing social change and protecting the youth from the negative effects of alcohol. He emphasized that liquor consumption should not interfere with the sanctity of religious places.
The ban is now officially in effect, and liquor sales in these designated areas will remain prohibited.
