The Madhya Pradesh government is on the verge of a significant decision that could impose a complete alcohol ban across 17 of the state’s most revered cities. While the official list of these cities is yet to be disclosed, speculation based on Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s recent statements suggests that locations such as Ujjain, Orchha, Salkanpur, Chitrakoot, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Maihar, Amarkantak, and the Pashupatinath temple area in Mandsaur are likely to be among the places affected. The ban could also extend to other religiously significant cities, bringing the total to 17.
These cities hold deep religious and cultural importance, making them ideal candidates for such a prohibition. Ujjain and Omkareshwar, for instance, are revered Jyotirlinga sites, while Maihar is a prominent Shaktipeeth. Orchha is home to the Raja Ram Mandir, where Lord Ram is venerated as a king, and Maheshwar is widely regarded as a key spiritual center in India. Amarkantak, famous as the origin of the Narmada river, is another key site in the government’s focus. The move to impose a ban is designed to protect and promote the sanctity of these religious locations.
The government’s decision will come to a head at a ‘destination cabinet meeting’ scheduled in Maheshwar, Khargone, to mark the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilya Bai, a revered historical figure. The cabinet meeting, set to take place in Maheshwar, will be of particular significance as it marks the first such meeting in the city since 2003.
During this gathering, the government is expected to finalize the decision regarding the alcohol ban in these 17 cities. The move has been foreshadowed by Chief Minister Yadav, who first hinted at it during a public event in Narsinghpur district. In addition to discussing the prohibition, the cabinet will deliberate on Madhya Pradesh’s new excise policy, which aims to offset the anticipated revenue loss resulting from the ban on alcohol. This policy will also introduce new regulations for liquor shop auctions.
As part of the commemoration of Devi Ahilya Bai’s 300th birth anniversary, the state government plans to implement various initiatives to honor her legacy. These include schemes designed to highlight her contributions to Indian history, further cementing her status as a figure of immense cultural and historical significance.
While the final decision will be made during the cabinet meeting, the proposed alcohol ban is already sparking debate, with proponents viewing it as a step toward preserving the sanctity of religious places and improving public health. However, the policy’s potential impact on local businesses and the state’s revenue will be key points of contention.
As the cabinet prepares for this landmark meeting, all eyes will be on Madhya Pradesh to see how the government balances the cultural, religious, and economic factors involved in what could be a landmark decision for the state’s future.
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