Alcohol, meat, and tobacco banned within Amritsar’s walled city

May 12, 2026

The Amritsar district administration has taken a major decision to maintain the city’s religious sanctity and sacred atmosphere. Under orders issued by District Magistrate Dalwinderjit Singh, the sale, consumption, and storage of alcohol, meat, tobacco, and other intoxicants has been completely banned within Amritsar’s walled city. This order will remain in effect until July 7, 2026.

Steps to maintain the dignity of religious sites

According to the administration, this decision was taken to maintain the dignity of cities and religious sites declared holy by the Punjab government. The rules have been implemented keeping in mind the sanctity of Amritsar, as well as religious sites like Sri Anandpur Sahib and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib.

Orders reissued under Section 163

The District Magistrate has reissued the orders using the powers granted under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Services Code, 2023. The administration has clearly stated that strict action will be taken against those selling or storing betel leaves, beedis, cigarettes, tobacco products, or other intoxicants within the walled city area.

Administration seeks public cooperation

The administration has directed the health department and police officials to strictly enforce the orders. At the same time, the public has also been appealed to cooperate with the administration in maintaining the religious sentiments and sacred atmosphere of the city.