Madhya Pradesh Implements Liquor Ban in 17 Religious Towns

The state government announces a major step towards alcohol prohibition, citing social and cultural impacts.

The Madhya Pradesh government has banned liquor sales in 17 religious towns, including Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and Maheshwar, as part of a new excise policy for 2025-26.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav described the move as the first step toward a complete state-wide prohibition on alcohol consumption.
The ban will result in the closure of 52 liquor outlets across these towns, with no plans to relocate them elsewhere.
The new excise policy also introduces measures to regulate alcohol consumption, including bars serving only low-alcohol beverages and technological upgrades to track liquor sales.
Officials emphasized the decision's intent to address issues like domestic violence, youth addiction, and social harm caused by alcohol.