- By Deeksha Gour
- Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:59 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Liquor, Tobacco Ban: The Punjab government has introduced strict prohibitions on liquor, meat and tobacco in three cities after officially designating them as holy cities. The ban follows a resolution passed unanimously during a special session of the Punjab Assembly.
Complete Ban On Liquor, Tobacco, Meat in THESE Three Cities
Under the new decision, Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar, Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda and the Galiara zone around the Golden Temple in Amritsar will no longer permit the sale or consumption of any intoxicants. The resolution states that items such as liquor, tobacco and other addictive substances must not be sold, purchased or consumed within these areas.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presented the resolution during a special Assembly session held in Anandpur Sahib. The sitting was organised to honour the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur and the announcement formed a major part of the day’s proceedings.
CM Mann Calls Decision “A Historic Step”
Speaking to reporters after the session, the Chief Minister said public sentiment had supported this demand for a long time. He described the move as “a historic step” and remarked that “the special session will be remembered for a long time for this move.” He also emphasised that the declaration “was not just a demand by a single political party, community or religion, rather, it was an essential step toward the preservation and global promotion of our cultural heritage.”
The state government has also been conducting various events since November 23 to mark the martyrdom anniversary, with activities continuing till November 25.
Three Sikh Takhts Fall Within Newly Declared Holy Zones
Punjab is home to five Sikh Takhts, out of which three Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo and Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib fall within the newly declared holy cities. Mann said these places hold deep religious and historical significance and represent an important part of the region’s civilisational identity.
He added that the government aims to promote religious tourism and ensure overall development in these areas. The administration will also work on improving infrastructure and services to support the new status granted to the cities.