Liquor Ban: On January 22, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be consecrated, marking a significant day, especially in BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh. The ceremony, known as ‘Pran Pratishtha,’ will witness the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla (child form of Lord Ram) in the Ram Temple’s sanctum sanctorum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be among the prominent guests at this grand event.
Across India, celebrations are planned, and the Prime Minister encourages everyone to light diyas to commemorate this historic moment. Additionally, the BJP is organizing special pujas in temples and localities. To maintain the solemnity of the occasion, several BJP-ruled state governments have decided to Liquor Ban on Monday, January 22.
Liquor Ban on Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration Day
Anticipation is growing for the upcoming consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22. In light of the religious significance and cultural enthusiasm surrounding this historic event, 6 states have decided to observe a “dry day” with a one-day Liquor Ban.
Also Read: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Free Prasad Online, How to Recieve?
List of States Observing Dry Day on 22nd January
The sales of alcohol are banned in the following states on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration Day:
Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh, the first state to prohibit alcohol sales starting January 22, recently declared this decision under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, who took office last month after the BJP’s victory.
In a straightforward move, Chief Minister Sai emphasized that January 22 would be a “dry day” throughout the state, meaning that the liquor ban not only in retail shops but also in pubs, restaurants, and upscale clubs.
In addition to this alcohol ban announcement, Chief Minister Sai shared that the state’s Rice Millers’ Association has dispatched 300 metric tonnes of fragrant rice to Ayodhya for upcoming celebrations. Furthermore, farmers from Chhattisgarh are set to contribute by sending vegetables to Uttar Pradesh.
Assam
Chhattisgarh set the precedent, and Assam quickly followed suit. The tourism minister, Jayant Malla Barua, declared, “In celebration of the Ram Temple inauguration, the Assam government will observe January 22 as a dry day.” The BJP is presently serving its second consecutive term in this north-eastern state.
Uttar Pradesh
On January 22, Uttar Pradesh took a significant step by declaring a dry day, prohibiting the sale of liquor across the state during the celebration of ‘Pran Pratishtha’ as directed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He emphasized that this day would be treated as a “national festival,” leading to the declaration of a holiday for all educational institutions in the state.
Yogi Adityanath had initially requested the liquor ban during his visit to Ayodhya on January 9. Additionally, he urged the implementation of the ‘Kumbh Model’ for cleanliness in Ayodhya, emphasizing the need for pristine conditions on major roads and streets. Currently, 3,800 sanitation workers are deployed, and Adityanath proposed increasing this number by 1,500.
Notably, the state government had already declared the 84-Kosi Parikrama area near the temple premises as a ‘no liquor zone’ last year. State excise minister Nitin Agrawal had then announced the prohibition of liquor sale and consumption, with plans to relocate or remove wine shops from the designated area.
Heritage Area of Jaipur Municipality
In Rajasthan, governed by the BJP post recent election results, there is no widespread ban on meat shops. However, a decision has been made to keep meat shops closed in Jaipur’s Municipal Corporation (JMC) Heritage area on January 22.
Although there were requests to close liquor shops within the JMC limits, BJP leader Gopal Sharma’s proposal was rejected by Mayor Munesh Gujjar due to technical reasons. Notably, areas such as Amer, Hawa Mahal, Civil Lines, Kishanpole, and Adarsh Nagar are encompassed within the JMC limits.
Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, a coalition government is in power, and the BJP plays a significant role in this alliance alongside the Eknath Shinde faction of the Shiv Sena and the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP. Interestingly, the Eknath Shinde administration has not implemented a dry day rule, which could be attributed to Mumbai’s diverse population and the substantial revenue it generates.
Haryana
On January 22, the Haryana government designated a ‘dry day’ due to the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration ceremony) at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar made the announcement on Monday during an event. He emphasized that liquor vends will be closed on January 22, following his directive to the relevant department.
Reasons Behind Liquor Ban
Implementing a temporary liquor ban during the consecration ceremony has been influenced by various considerations:
- Preserving Sacredness: The consecration ceremony holds great significance for millions of Hindus, representing a sacred moment. Declaring it a dry day is intended to uphold the sanctity of the event and prevent any disturbances caused by intoxicated individuals.
- Safeguarding Public Order: Given the anticipation of large gatherings during the celebrations, a dry day is a measure aimed at minimizing the risk of public disturbances. This helps to ensure a smooth flow of events and maintain overall law and order.
- Fostering Cultural Respect: Choosing to abstain from alcohol consumption during this time is a way to demonstrate respect for the religious sentiments associated with the ceremony. It aligns with the promotion of cultural understanding and harmony.
While these 6 states have officially designated a dry day, it’s worth noting that other states may also witness specific districts or towns implementing similar restrictions. It’s recommended to verify local regulations closer to the date for precise and up-to-date information.
Liquor Ban on Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration Day FAQs
Q.1. Why are these states implementing a liquor ban?
Ans. To preserve the sacredness of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration, uphold public order, and foster cultural respect during this significant event.
Q.2. Which states have declared a dry day on January 22?
Ans. Chhattisgarh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan (JMC Heritage area), Maharashtra, and Haryana.
Q.3. What is ‘Pran Pratishtha,’ and why is it celebrated?
Ans. ‘Pran Pratishtha’ is the consecration ceremony marking the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla in the Ayodhya Ram Temple, a historic and sacred event for Hindus.
Q.4. Is the liquor ban only in retail shops, or does it include restaurants and clubs?
Ans. The ban extends to all outlets, including retail shops, pubs, restaurants, and clubs, ensuring a comprehensive restriction on alcohol sales.
Q.5. How can I stay updated on local regulations for January 22 celebrations?
Ans. Verify the latest information by checking with local authorities closer to the date for any additional restrictions or updates on the liquor ban.
