Bhopal: A total ban on liquor in 19 religious cities and selected gram panchayats across Madhya Pradesh, including Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, and Maihar, came into effect on Tuesday.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav termed the move a “historic step towards de-addiction,” emphasizing the public faith and religious significance of these areas.
The decision, initially announced by CM Yadav, was approved by the state cabinet on January 24 during a meeting in Maheshwar, a town closely associated with the revered queen Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar. As per the directive, all liquor shops and bars have been shut down in the urban limits of Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Datia, Panna, Mandla, Multai, Mandsaur, and Amarkantak. Additionally, the prohibition extends to the gram panchayat limits of Salkanpur, Kundalpur, Bandakpur, Barmankalan, Barmankhurd, and Linga.
The BJP-led government has officially designated these areas as “completely sacred,” implementing a complete ban on liquor within their jurisdiction.
Ujjain, home to the revered Mahakal Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Amarkantak, the origin of the Narmada River, are among the key religious sites affected by the ban. The prohibition covers areas governed by one municipal corporation, multiple municipal councils, and several village panchayats.
The move aligns with the government’s broader efforts to promote de-addiction and uphold the sanctity of religious places in the state.
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