Saharanpur: Congress lawmaker Imran Masood has urged for a ban on liquor sales during Navratri, questioning why only meat shops face restrictions while alcohol continues to be freely available. Speaking in an exclusive interaction with IANS, the Saharanpur MP emphasized that maintaining the sanctity of festivals should apply to all aspects, not just selective bans.
“Everybody is demanding a ban on meat shops during Navratri. Why is no one asking for a ban on liquor shops? Why is there no outpouring on the free flow of liquor during Navratri? Will this not spoil the purity and sanctity of the festival?” Masood stated.
The Congress leader further stressed that peaceful celebrations should be the priority and that all communities should contribute to maintaining harmony during festivals, making necessary adjustments as required. He noted that similar considerations should apply to all religious observances, including Eid.
This year, Eid-ul-Fitr and Navratri are set to coincide on the same day, Monday, with minimal chances of changes in the Eid schedule due to moon sighting variations.
Masood had earlier expressed support for the meat ban during Navratri, asserting that abstaining from meat for a few days would not have a significant impact but would contribute to communal peace.
Regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Masood reaffirmed the Opposition’s strong stance against what he termed a “partisan legislation.” He stated that Congress had opposed the bill in the Joint Parliamentary Committee and would continue to resist it in Parliament.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced that the Waqf Bill would be reintroduced in the ongoing session of Parliament before the Budget Session concludes on April 4.
