Vaishno Devi: Liquor, non-veg food ban extended for 2 months
What's the story
The ban on the sale, possession, and consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food near the Vaishno Devi shrine has been extended for two more months. The ban is applicable to Katra, the pilgrim's base camp in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The ban covers a 12-kilometer track from Katra to the holy cave on Trikuta Hill and its surrounding areas.
Legal basis
Prohibition issued under Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita
The ban was imposed by Katra sub-divisional magistrate Piyush Dhotra, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The ban covers villages two kilometers on both sides of the track, including Arli, Hansali, and Matyal. It also covers 200 meters on both sides of the Katra-Tikri road, affecting villages like Chamba, Serli, and Bhagta.
Wider impact
Ban extends to major roads and markets
The ban further extends to 200 meters on both sides of the Katra-Jammu road, covering villages like Kundrorian, Kotli Bajallian, Nomain, and Maghal. It also includes areas within 200 meters on both sides of the Katra-Reasi road from Katra to Nau Devian and Aghar Jitto. The ban covers Nau Devian markets and is within 100 meters on either side of Panthal-Domail road.