Madhya Pradesh Enforces Liquor Ban in 19 Religious Areas

Effective April 1, 2025, the state government’s new excise policy shuts 47 liquor shops to preserve sanctity and address social issues.

The liquor ban applies to 19 religious locations, including Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and Chitrakoot, as part of Madhya Pradesh’s new excise policy.
Approximately 47 liquor shops have been closed as the ban takes effect on April 1, 2025.
The policy introduces a 20% increase in liquor license fees and a new category of 'Low Alcoholic Beverage Bar' licenses for beer, wine, and low-alcohol drinks.
Religious leaders and public figures, such as Ram Hriday Das and BK Jain, have praised the ban as a step toward societal improvement.
The initiative aims to discourage high-intensity alcohol consumption and address issues like addiction and domestic violence.