Meat, alcohol sale ban in Amritsar's 'Walled City' near Golden Temple triggers fear of lost livelihoods among traders

In Amritsar, the ban applies to the Walled City, the densely populated zone surrounding the Golden Temple. (Representative image)

• Punjab AAP govt designates Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo, Anandpur Sahib as holy cities
• Amritsar traders upset over meat, fish, alcohol, tobacco ban in Walled City
• Govt promises phased rehabilitation and consultations for affected businesses

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Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s move to declare parts of Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo and Sri Anandpur Sahib as “holy cities” has sparked unease and anger among traders in Amritsar’s Walled City, many of whom say the decision threatens to destroy livelihoods built over generations, reported The Times of India.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the decision in a video message on December 21, calling it a “historic step”. Following a government notification, the sale of meat, fish, alcohol, tobacco and other intoxicants has been prohibited in these areas.

In Amritsar, the ban applies to the Walled City, the densely populated zone surrounding the Golden Temple.

According to the report, for traders like Rajinder Kumar, a fourth-generation fish wholesaler operating inside Hall Gate, the announcement has been devastating. “There are 18 suppliers. This was the first wholesale fish market of Punjab and supplies fish to various districts even today. With one order, generations of hard work is being erased,” he has been quoted to say.

Kumar added that each shop employs more than 40 workers, many of whom now fear sudden unemployment.

Similar concerns were raised by Manmohan Singh, who runs an eatery near BK Dutt Gate. Questioning the scope of the decision, he said, “There was already a Galliara around Golden Temple, where such restrictions are followed. Why extend it to the whole Walled City? We have not been given any alternative. Amritsar is not only a religious city. It is also known worldwide for its food.”

Several traders also complained that they were not consulted before the move was finalised.

Representatives of the hospitality sector acknowledged the intent behind the policy but warned of unintended consequences. AK Chattha, president of the Amritsar Hotel and Restaurant Association, told The Times of India that meat and tobacco sellers would be hit the hardest. “Hotels can bring meat from outside and adjust their menus. But this decision may instead increase illegal trade and corruption,” he has been quoted.

Political reactions have also followed. BJP functionary Jagmohan Singh Raju welcomed the idea in principle but demanded safeguards for those affected. “Declaring Sri Amritsar a holy city is a historic step, but it must be implemented with foresight. Sanctity cannot come at the cost of livelihoods. Rehabilitation is not a concession -- it is a responsibility,” he said in a letter to the chief minister.

The AAP government has promised relief. Senior party leader Baltej Pannu said, “Govt will ensure proper rehabilitation. If businesses are removed, alternative arrangements will be made in a phased and planned manner. Authorities will consult those affected, engage with relevant institutions, and work out the best possible and mutually acceptable solution to ensure livelihoods are protected."

For small vendors like Moti Ram, who runs a paan and cigarette kiosk, the assurance offers little immediate comfort. “I have spent my entire life selling pan and cigarettes here. This sudden decision has pulled the ground from under my feet,” he has been quoted to say.

According to the municipal corporation, around 150 meat, tobacco and liquor shops in the Walled City will have to be relocated.

The decision follows a resolution passed unanimously during a special Punjab Assembly session held in Sri Anandpur Sahib to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. CM Mann has said strict regulations will now apply, while promising development and better facilities for devotees visiting these religious centres.