News Desk: The Ladakh administration has rejected climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s allegations that alcohol is being promoted across the Union Territory and that bars are opening in neighbourhoods and near schools. In an official statement, the administration described his claims as “false” and “baseless” and urged him to verify information through official sources before making public statements.
The response came after Wangchuk raised concerns about Ladakh’s excise policy during a press conference at Ladakh Bhavan in New Delhi on October 22. He alleged that Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena was acting arbitrarily and that the authorities were encouraging alcohol sales despite opposition from local residents.
The administration disputed these allegations, stating that only one liquor shop is currently operational across Ladakh.
Only one liquor shop operational
According to the administration, two liquor shops had been permitted in Leh’s Ward No. 4 and Ward No. 6. Following an auction held on October 14, 2026, a wine shop in Ward No. 6 became operational. However, no bids were received for the proposed shop in Ward No. 4, and it did not open.
The administration said these details contradicted Wangchuk’s claim that liquor shops were being opened across the region.
New excise policy withdrawn
Addressing concerns over the excise policy, the administration said the 2026-27 policy was notified on June 1, 2026. However, following feedback and suggestions from residents and social organisations, the Lieutenant Governor withdrew it on August 26.
The proposal to open wine shops under the new policy was subsequently withdrawn, and the auction notice was cancelled. The previous excise policy for 2025-26 was restored on August 26 and remains in force, according to the administration.
Bars and hotel licences
The administration also shared details of existing establishments authorised to serve alcohol. It said 50 liquor retail outlets attached to bars and restaurants are operational across Ladakh, including 38 in Leh, seven in Nubra, three in Zanskar and two in Changthang. Two beer bars are also operating in Leh.
Additionally, nine hotels in Leh hold liquor licences. Four hotels in Leh and one in Nubra obtained licences during the current year.
The administration maintained that licences are issued only to applicants who meet prescribed requirements, including distance restrictions concerning highways, religious institutions and educational institutions. These criteria also apply to hotel licences.
Rejecting the allegation that bars were opening near schools and in every neighbourhood, the administration said the claims were not supported by official records.
It further accused Wangchuk of spreading misinformation and creating unnecessary public alarm. The administration urged him to check facts with official sources before presenting allegations to the media and the public.
The exchange highlights the continuing disagreement over Ladakh’s excise policy and the administration’s approach to alcohol regulation in the Union Territory.
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