Leh, October 28: The Ladakh Administration has clarified that only one liquor shop is currently operational across the Union Territory, rejecting claims that liquor outlets are being opened across neighbourhoods and near educational institutions. It has also disputed allegations that bars are being opened indiscriminately, describing the remarks made by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk as “false”, “baseless” and “totally imaginary”.
In a press release issued in response to Wangchuk’s remarks at a press conference at Ladakh Bhavan in New Delhi on October 22, the Administration said the claims did not reflect the position on the ground and cautioned him against spreading misinformation without verifying facts from official sources.
Wangchuk had alleged that the Lieutenant Governor was acting arbitrarily and that liquor outlets and bars were being opened across Ladakh despite public opposition, including near schools and in residential neighbourhoods.
Explaining the policy background, the Administration said the new Excise Policy 2026-27, notified on June 1, was rolled back on August 26 following feedback and suggestions from residents and social organisations. The proposal to open wine shops under the new policy was withdrawn, and the auction notice issued pursuant to it was cancelled.
The previous Excise Policy for 2025-26 was restored and remains in force, it said.
Under the restored policy, two liquor shops were permitted in Leh’s Wards 4 and 6. However, an auction held on October 14 resulted in a wine shop becoming operational only in Ward 6. No bid was received for Ward 4, leaving the Union Territory with just one operational liquor shop, according to the Administration.
On allegations concerning bars, the Administration said 50 establishments serving liquor in conjunction with restaurants were operational across Ladakh—38 in Leh, seven in Nubra, three in Zanskar and two in Changthang. Two beer bars were also operational in Leh.
Additionally, nine hotels in Leh held liquor licences, four of which had applied for and received licences this year. One hotel in Nubra had also obtained a licence this year.
The Administration maintained that licences were issued only to applicants meeting prescribed norms, including distance requirements from highways, religious places and educational institutions. The same distance criteria applied to hotels holding liquor licences, it said, rejecting Wangchuk’s allegation that bars were being opened in every street and locality and near schools.
The statement said the official records contradicted claims of liquor shops being opened “in every nook and corner” of Ladakh and accused Wangchuk of creating unnecessary public alarm.
The Administration advised him to verify information through official sources before making statements to the national media and the public.
The press release also included a Hindi-language reference to Wangchuk’s October 22 remarks, which the Administration characterised as misleading.
