BHOPAL, April 1, 2025 — In a landmark move toward promoting de-addiction, the Madhya Pradesh government has implemented a complete Liquor Ban in 19 religious towns and rural areas across the state, effective April 1, as per the directive of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav.
This historic initiative includes one municipal corporation, six municipal councils, six town councils, and six gram panchayats, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to preserving the sanctity of sacred sites.
Religious Heritage Zones Now Alcohol-Free
Among the areas where the ban is now in force are some of Madhya Pradesh’s most revered spiritual and cultural centers:
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Ujjain – the city of Baba Mahakal
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Amarkantak – origin of the Narmada River
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Maheshwar, Orchha Ramraja Temple, Omkareshwar, Mandla (Satdhara)
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Multai – origin of Tapti River
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Pitambara Devi Peeth (Datia), Jabalpur Bhedaghat, Chitrakoot, Maihar, Salakanpur, Sanchi, Mandlaeshwar, Vandrawan, Khajuraho, Nalkheda, Pashupatinath (Mandsaur), Barman Ghat, and Panna
In all these areas, alcohol sale and consumption is strictly prohibited as of today.
Statement from the Chief Minister
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav emphasized the social and spiritual significance of this decision:
“This is a historic step in our mission toward a drug-free Madhya Pradesh. These religious and cultural centers are the pride of our state and must be preserved with sanctity.”
Special Note: Ujjain’s Kal Bhairav Temple
A notable cultural shift accompanies this ban in Ujjain, where at the Kal Bhairav Temple, there has long been a tradition of offering liquor to the deity. Now:
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The liquor shop inside the temple complex will be closed permanently.
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Devotees must now bring offerings from outside the temple premises if they wish to continue the ritual.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.