Madhya Pradesh bans liquor at 19 prime pilgrimage destinations including Ujjain, Orchha and Mandla

In a recent update, the Madhya Pradesh government has imposed a statewide liquor ban at 19 religious sites , effective from 1 April, 2025. The new policy restricts the sale of alcohol and the operation of liquor shops in these regions. The ban affects one municipal corporation, six municipal councils, six city councils, and six gram panchayats, ensuring that alcohol is not available in these locations.

A look at the 19 cities:

The religious sites impacted by this ban include renowned pilgrimage destinations include Ujjain , Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Datia, Panna, Mandla, Multai, Mandsaur, and Amarkantak. Additionally, gram panchayats like Salkanpur, Kundalpur, Bandakpur, Barmankalan, Barmankhurd, and Linga are also included in the prohibition.

BJP leader Anil Firojiya expressed his support for the move, praising Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and his cabinet for their decision. "I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to our esteemed Chief Minister and his entire cabinet for making such a commendable decision. Ujjain is a sacred city, and for years, the public and saints have been demanding a liquor ban. Now that the Chief Minister has issued this order, I am extremely grateful to him," Firojiya said.

The liquor ban makes sure that all liquor shops in the affected religious towns, including Ujjain, Mandleshwar, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot and Datia will be closed. However, the policy does not affect personal alcohol consumption within private residences. But know that public drinking is strictly prohibited, with legal consequences for violators.


A unique aspect of the ban pertains to Ujjain’s Kaal Bhairav Temple, where devotees traditionally offer liquor as part of their rituals. While the sale of alcohol around the temple will be halted, devotees will still be permitted to bring their own alcohol for ritualistic offerings. Firojiya clarified, "There is no restriction for the deity, but the sale of liquor will be prohibited."

Khandwa MP Gyaneshwar Patil also lauded the decision, calling it a significant step toward preserving the sanctity of religious sites . He noted that places like Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple attract many devotees, and alcohol consumption in the area had previously caused harm to religious sentiments and even led to criminal incidents.