Srinagar, Feb 24: Irtiqa Mufti, the eldest daughter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti, has publicly opposed alcohol consumption in Jammu and Kashmir and is calling for support for the party’s initiative to prohibit liquor in the Union Territory.
In a video message shared on X, Irtiqa Mufti urged the public to join the PDP in their efforts to ban alcohol, stating, “Please participate in our battle against alcohol and addiction. I will soon share a link in my bio for our digital signature campaign. Remember, the ban is just the first step. To ensure its success, we must educate our communities about the risks associated with alcohol and drugs.” “Rather than ostracizing those suffering from addiction and abandoning them, we need comprehensive rehabilitation services to support their recovery. If you are facing addiction, please seek assistance,” she emphasized, noting that alcohol and drugs are wreaking havoc on the lives of young people.
She pointed out that while crime rates in J-K were lower in the past, families are now falling apart due to alcohol-related issues.
Irtiqa added that relying solely on governmental action is insufficient, as it requires a united effort to tackle this issue.
“It is our collective duty to confront this challenge, and not merely await government intervention. While the government can implement bans and take action against drug traffickers, our joint responsibility remains,” she stated.
The PDP has initiated a signature drive to gather backing for a bill presented in the assembly by Mir Mohammad Fayaz, the party’s MLA from Kupwara, which aims for a total ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir.
The campaign was inaugurated at the party’s headquarters by Iltija Mufti, Mehbooba Mufti’s youngest daughter, who has recently been active in politics and had previously contested the assembly elections for Bijbehara unsuccessfully last year.
