BJP Jammu and Kashmir General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul on Monday said no government can completely stop alcohol consumption through legislation alone, stressing that awareness campaigns are essential to curb both alcohol and drug abuse.
Speaking to reporters, Koul backed Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's remarks on the issue, saying governments across the country have struggled to prohibit alcohol consumption through laws alone.
"There should be awareness to stop consumption of alcohol and drugs. It is not possible for any government to stop people from consuming alcohol by introducing laws. Wherever such laws have been enforced, the situation has become even worse," he said.
Reacting to remarks made by Minister Sakeena Itoo, Koul said the anti-narcotics crackdown had begun in Jammu before being extended to Kashmir and should not be viewed through a religious lens.
The BJP leader defended the strong measures being taken against the narcotics trade, saying strict action was necessary to instil fear among those involved.
"It is necessary and if it is not done, how will it stop? They won't even be afraid and they will end our future," he said.
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