New Delhi [India], April 2 (HBTV): The Madhya Pradesh government has enforced a liquor ban in 19 cities starting April 1. Under this policy, the sale of alcohol will be completely prohibited in 19 religious sites across the state, and no liquor shops will be allowed in these areas.

The religious places where the liquor ban has been implemented include one municipal corporation, six municipal councils, six city councils, and six gram panchayats. These areas include Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Datia, Panna, Mandla, Multai, Mandsaur, and Amarkantak. Additionally, the ban extends to the gram panchayat regions of Salkanpur, Kundalpur, Bandakpur, Barmankalan, Barmankhurd, and Linga.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Anil Firojiya on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav for implementing the ban in these religious locations.

‘I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to our esteemed Chief Minister and his entire cabinet for making such a commendable decision. Ujjain is a sacred city, and for years, the public and saints have been demanding a liquor ban. Now that the Chief Minister has issued this order, I am extremely grateful to him,’ Firojiya said.

He further clarified that following the enforcement of this policy, all liquor shops in Ujjain would be shut down. However, personal alcohol consumption within private residences would not be restricted. Drinking in public places, however, would be strictly prohibited, and violators would face legal action.

Despite the ban, Ujjain’s world-famous Kaal Bhairav Temple will continue its unique tradition of devotees offering liquor to the deity. Thousands of pilgrims from across the country visit the temple daily to make these offerings.

When asked about the ban’s implementation at Kaal Bhairav Temple, Firojiya said, ‘In Ujjain, some temples have a long-standing tradition of offering liquor to the deity, such as the renowned Kaal Bhairav Temple. Under the new policy, while liquor shops in the vicinity of the temple will be shut down, devotees visiting from outside will be allowed to bring their own alcohol for offerings. There are no restrictions for the deity, but the sale of liquor will be prohibited.’

Khandwa MP Gyaneshwar Patil welcomed the policy and praised the government's firm stance.

‘The complete prohibition of alcohol in Madhya Pradesh’s religious places is a commendable step. On behalf of the people of the state, I express my gratitude to the Chief Minister. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located in my parliamentary constituency, attracts numerous devotees. Unfortunately, some visitors used to consume alcohol, which not only hurt religious sentiments but also led to criminal incidents. With this strict policy, the sale of liquor will now be completely banned in the area. This is a bold and necessary move by the Madhya Pradesh government, and I thank them for it,’ Patil said.

The decision marks a significant step by the Madhya Pradesh government in maintaining the sanctity of its religious sites while addressing concerns over alcohol-related disturbances.

(ANI)