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On Sunday, the Punjab government implemented a ban on the sale of meat, tobacco, alcohol, and other intoxicants in the walled city of Amritsar, as well as in Talwandi Sabo and Anandpur Sahib. This decision follows a resolution passed unanimously by the state Assembly on November 24, which designated these locations as 'holy cities.'

A formal notification regarding this ban was issued on December 15. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced via social media that the status of these cities as holy sites is now officially recognized.

Mann emphasized the significance of these cities, stating, 'They are not just religious centers but also vital symbols of our cultural heritage.' He extended his congratulations to the Sikh community and highlighted that the government would also focus on necessary development in these areas to ensure that visitors do not encounter any difficulties.

To facilitate transportation for devotees, the government plans to introduce services such as e-rickshaws, mini-buses, and shuttle buses. In November, Mann had mentioned that the comprehensive development of these cities would enhance religious tourism.

Reports indicate that numerous restaurants serving non-vegetarian food have been operating in Amritsar's walled city for many years. Other states, including Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, have also imposed similar bans on alcohol and meat sales in their respective holy cities.

In July, the government in Odisha prohibited the sale of liquor within a 2-km radius of the Jagannath temple in Puri and announced plans to ban meat sales along the Grand Road, which is significant during the annual Rath Yatra. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh enacted a liquor ban in 19 cities and gram panchayat areas of religious importance in April, with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav calling it a 'historic step towards de-addiction.'