Administration Denies Expansion Claims

The Ladakh administration has issued a strong rebuttal against climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's allegations that bars are being established in "every street" of the Union Territory. Describing the claims as "false, baseless, and totally imaginary," the Excise Department clarified that only a single standalone liquor shop is currently operational across the entire region.

The controversy follows recent remarks made by Wangchuk at Ladakh Bhavan in New Delhi, where he criticized Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena over administrative decisions regarding alcohol sales. Wangchuk had alleged that hundreds of women were protesting against expanding liquor availability near residential neighborhoods and schools, questioning the rationale behind promoting alcohol in the region.

Policy Rollback and Current Status

Addressing the timeline of the alcohol policy, the administration explained that its Excise Policy 2026-27, notified on June 1, was formally rescinded on August 26 following strong representations from local residents and social organizations. The initial proposal, which sought to increase standalone liquor outlets from two to twenty, was completely scrapped along with its auction notices, restoring the previous 2025-26 framework.

Under the reinstated policy, standalone shops were permitted only in Leh's Wards 4 and 6. Following an October 14 auction, only one shop became operational in Ward 6, while Ward 4 received no bids. This effectively reduced the total number of standalone liquor shops in Ladakh from two to one.

Beyond standalone retail, the Excise Department detailed other licensed establishments, noting 50 liquor vendors attached to restaurants—38 in Leh, seven in Nubra, three in Zanskar, and two in Changthang—alongside two beer bars in Leh. Additionally, nine hotels in Leh and one in Nubra hold valid liquor licenses.

Public Protest and Dialogue

The administration rejected accusations regarding proximity to educational and religious institutions, stating strict adherence to mandated distance rules. However, the issue has sparked widespread community mobilization. Women representing Buddhist, Muslim, and Christian organizations recently held protest rallies in Leh and staged a sit-in at NDS Park, advocating for Ladakh to be declared a dry Union Territory to protect local youth and cultural heritage.

In response to mounting social concerns, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra emphasized the need for broader public consultations, balancing community sentiments with potential economic impacts on tourism, employment, and the risk of illicit liquor proliferation. The administration maintains it remains open to constructive dialogue to find a middle ground.