Aam Aadmi Party MLA Mehraj Malik on Thursday accused the BJP of promoting alcohol in Jammu, a region known for its religious significance.
Speaking about alcohol consumption in the town, Malik raised concerns over the BJP’s silence on the issue. “They (BJP) have made alcohol commonplace in Jammu’s town of temples,” he said.
Malik pointed out the BJP’s inaction when alcohol consumption was taking place in Katra, a popular pilgrimage destination.
“What was the BJP doing when people were drinking alcohol in Katra? They don’t have the right to speak of religion,” he added.
He further emphasized the double standards in the treatment of public drinking. “Muslims and Hindus both drink. But there is not a second opinion on who drinks publicly. When Muslims drink publicly they are interrogated and ostracised,” Malik stated, criticizing the perceived bias.
Malik also questioned the BJP’s stance on the issue, citing instances where alcohol shops were set up and mothers were reportedly beaten for opposing the sale of alcohol. “Where are their sentiments when shops were being sold for alcohol, when mothers were beaten for asking the administration to not bring alcohol, where was BJP then?” he said.
He concluded by asserting, “They don’t have the right to talk about religious sentiments,” suggesting that the BJP’s response to these issues was politically motivated and inconsistent.
Meanwhile, Malik on Wednesday responded to the non-bailable warrant issued against him by a Jammu court, stating that it is a personal issue and he is focused on his duties in the assembly.
“I am an MLA; you may ask me about what is going on in the assembly. This (non-bailable warrant) is a personal matter. You may ask about anything other than that… I don’t want to speak on that matter; the people will look after it,” Malik said.
He further added, “Those who taught me politics will now also teach me the law… I don’t know what the warrant is. I am busy in the assembly with people’s issues… It is a non-bailable warrant. I may get arrested and get bailed. What more can happen? I have not killed anyone… There may be some minor issue; I don’t know about it.”
Despite the legal proceedings, Malik emphasized the larger issue at hand, focusing on the state’s governance.
“The main issue is that a government has been formed in J&K and what it is doing in the House… Are they fulfilling the promises made to the people during the elections?” he questioned.
