Srinagar | July 4,: In a passionate and strongly worded sermon during the Friday congregational prayers at Jama Masjid Srinagar, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemned the reported move to open a liquor shop in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar, calling it “an open assault on the faith, culture and future of the people of Kashmir.”
Addressing thousands of worshippers, the Mirwaiz said that such decisions are deeply disturbing and amount to a direct challenge to the values and identity of the Muslim-majority region.
“This is not just a simple administrative move. This is a direct attack on our religious, cultural and societal fabric. It is a deliberate attempt to ruin our people, especially our younger generations,” Mirwaiz said from the pulpit of the historic Jama Masjid.
The issue has sparked public outrage, especially after the Batmaloo Traders Association announced a three-day shutdown to protest against the opening of the liquor shop. Mirwaiz lauded the traders’ stand and said the public’s voice must be heard.
“The traders and local residents are absolutely right to resist this. We are already fighting the menace of drug addiction. Now, authorities are trying to promote liquor? This is unacceptable and cannot be allowed.”
“Why Promote Liquor in Kashmir? Why Not in Gujarat?”
Raising pointed questions, Mirwaiz said the government’s approach reeks of double standards and disrespect for Kashmiri society.
“Jammu and Kashmir is a Muslim-majority state. Selling liquor here is against our Islamic principles and societal values. Why don’t they promote it in Gujarat, which is officially a dry state? Why is this kind of cultural invasion reserved for Kashmir?”
He also dismissed the common justification that liquor sales boost tourism.
“Tourism has thrived in Kashmir for decades without alcohol. Linking tourism with liquor is nothing but an excuse to weaken our moral fabric.”
Call for Immediate Government Intervention
Directly addressing the J&K administration and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Mirwaiz urged immediate cancellation of any such proposal.
“We demand that the authorities immediately halt this plan. The government must listen to the voice of the people. If they fail to do so, then we—the ulema, civil society, and the people at large—will be forced to come out in protest.”
He warned that silence from the administration would leave the people with no choice but to launch a public resistance movement.
A Broader Cultural Concern
The Mirwaiz emphasized that this was not a one-off issue but part of a larger pattern of cultural erosion being pushed upon the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“These actions are not happening in isolation. There is a clear attempt to alter the character and identity of our society under the guise of development and normalcy.”
He concluded by urging unity among all sections of society to stand against such moves and protect the spiritual and moral foundations of Kashmiri culture.
