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Politics
Ladakh Traders Criticize Wangchuk's Dry UT Demand, Question Wine Licence
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 02 Nov 2026, 04:44 AM
👁 1
Ladakh liquor traders have raised objections to Sonam Wangchuk's call for a dry Union Territory, questioning the logic behind banning liquor while other habits remain unaddressed and highlighting his own wine brand license.
Ladakh's liquor trade community has voiced strong opposition to activist Sonam Wangchuk's recent demand to declare the Union Territory a dry zone. Traders argue that the proposed ban is selective, pointing out that other substances and habits, such as drug use, smoking, and meat consumption, have not been similarly targeted for restriction.
The industry representatives questioned the consistency of the demand, suggesting that if the goal is to curb harmful consumption, the approach should be comprehensive rather than focused solely on alcohol. They emphasized that the livelihoods of many in the region depend on the legal sale of liquor.
Furthermore, the traders raised specific questions regarding Wangchuk's personal involvement in the sector. They noted the existence of a license for his wine brand, asking why his own commercial interests in the alcohol industry were not considered when making such broad political demands.
The controversy highlights the growing tension between environmental and social activists and local economic stakeholders in Ladakh. While Wangchuk advocates for a healthier society, the trade body maintains that a blanket ban would be economically damaging and logically inconsistent without addressing other lifestyle choices.
The industry representatives questioned the consistency of the demand, suggesting that if the goal is to curb harmful consumption, the approach should be comprehensive rather than focused solely on alcohol. They emphasized that the livelihoods of many in the region depend on the legal sale of liquor.
Furthermore, the traders raised specific questions regarding Wangchuk's personal involvement in the sector. They noted the existence of a license for his wine brand, asking why his own commercial interests in the alcohol industry were not considered when making such broad political demands.
The controversy highlights the growing tension between environmental and social activists and local economic stakeholders in Ladakh. While Wangchuk advocates for a healthier society, the trade body maintains that a blanket ban would be economically damaging and logically inconsistent without addressing other lifestyle choices.