UP Govt Bans Sale Of Liquor Within 84 km Radius Around Ayodhya Ram Temple

Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has imposed a ban on liquor sales within an 84-kilometre radius of Ayodhya ahead of the Ram temple consecration ceremony. State Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal announced the decision after a meeting with Champat Rai, the general secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra. The ban applies specifically to the 84 Kosi Parikrama area in Ayodhya, with existing liquor shops set to be relocated. Notably, the prohibition does not extend to the entire Ayodhya metropolitan area.

The move comes just two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Ayodhya on December 30 for the inauguration of the newly-built international airport and Adyohya Dham railway station. The city has been fortified with heightened security measures, especially in light of a recent security breach in Parliament. Special commandos from NSG, ATS, and STF have been deployed, and a high alert has been issued. Security arrangements include monitoring every corner of Ayodhya during the Prime Minister’s three-hour program.

In the wake of the security concerns, heavy vehicles entering Ayodhya will be diverted to the Purvanchal Expressway, and alternative routes will be designated for traffic from Lucknow, Gonda, and Kanpur. Special DG (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar assured stringent security with the deployment of 3 DIGs, 17 SPs, 40 additional SPs, and various other law enforcement personnel.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit will be closely monitored, but there will be no restrictions on the movement of outsiders in Ayodhya during this period. The ban on liquor sales aims to ensure a peaceful and secure environment during the significant event.