Amritsar: The Amritsar district administration has once again taken a decisive step toward preserving the religious sanctity and peaceful environment of the historic city. According to the orders issued by District Magistrate Dalwinderjit Singh, a complete ban has been implemented on the sale, consumption, and storage of alcohol, meat, tobacco products, and other intoxicants within the boundaries of the walled city of Amritsar. This directive is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to honour the status of areas officially declared as holy by the Punjab government. The administration clarified that such measures are essential to uphold the dignity of prominent religious sites, including Sri Anandpur Sahib, Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, and Amritsar itself.
Exercising powers granted under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, the District Magistrate reissued these orders to ensure strict compliance. The mandate specifies that any individual found selling or storing betel leaves, bidis, cigarettes, tobacco-based products, or other narcotics within the designated area will face rigorous legal action. Authorities emphasized that this decision was taken in the public interest, keeping the deep-seated religious sentiments of the community in mind. Citizens have also been urged to cooperate with the local administration and fulfil their responsibility in maintaining the purity of the city.
The enforcement of these orders has been entrusted to the health department and police officials, with a special emphasis on monitoring by the Civil Surgeon of Amritsar. These regulations are slated to remain in effect until July 7, 2026. The administration has warned that any violation of the directive will lead to immediate legal proceedings. By implementing these restrictions, the district officials aim to ensure that the spiritual atmosphere of the walled city remains undisturbed for pilgrims and residents alike during the upcoming months.