Sindh Assembly says ‘cheers, but no ban’ as liquor motion fizzles

KARACHI:

The Sindh Assembly has rejected a resolution seeking a province-wide ban on the sale and purchase of liquor after a debate that turned light-hearted at several points during the session.

The resolution was moved by Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) lawmaker Anil Kumar, who called for the cancellation of liquor shop licences across the province.

Kumar argued that alcohol was being sold in the name of minorities, which he said brought disrepute to the Hindu community. He demanded that the provincial government withdraw all existing permits issued to liquor shops and impose a complete ban on liquor sales in Sindh.

Read: All resolutions by opposition shot down

The proposal sought strict restrictions on alcohol sales, stating that such a move would align with public interest and social values.

However, the resolution was opposed in the assembly.

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar said imposing a blanket ban would affect multiple segments of society. He termed the proposal Kumar’s personal opinion and said the government could not support it as alcohol sales were already regulated under existing laws.

In Sindh, liquor is sold under a controlled licensing system, primarily to non-Muslim citizens and foreigners, in accordance with legal provisions.

Lawmakers from various parties expressed their views during the debate. At several moments, the discussion drew laughter in the House before the resolution was put to a vote and rejected by a majority.

After completing the agenda, the speaker adjourned the session until Friday afternoon.