Is drinking alcohol legal in Pakistan
Because Pakistan is an Islamic country that follows Islamic rules and regulations, the consumption of alcohol is also prohibited. Pakistani alcohol law was lenient at the time of independence in 1947.
However, due to an increase in the population’s usage of alcohol and a violent protest campaign led by an alliance of right-wing religious groups and other anti-Bhutto forces, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s populist administration prohibited the sale of alcohol in Pakistan.
Can Non-Muslims drink alcohol in Lahore
Alcohol consumption is prohibited in Islam, the majority religion in Pakistan. Alcohol consumption is forbidden for Muslims since it is considered wicked. Nonetheless, it is uncertain whether non-Muslims are permitted to consume alcohol in Pakistan. Pakistan has strict anti-alcohol policies as well as a legal system founded on Islamic values.
Non-Muslims and foreigners with a particular government permit are allowed to sell and consume alcohol. The license is issued by the Excise and Taxes Department of the province government and is only valid for a limited time. Non-Muslims may use alcohol in private settings exclusively; it is not permissible in public situations.
Non-Muslims drinking alcohol is frowned upon in Pakistani society and is considered taboo. However, the government has made allowances for non-Muslims to purchase alcohol, which is sold in designated stores.
It is critical to remember that Pakistan’s alcohol consumption laws are strictly enforced, and those who violate them face serious consequences. It is critical to respect local traditions and customs while visiting Pakistan and to avoid doing anything that the locals may deem unpleasant or disagreeable.
How to drink alcohol in Lahore
Although the Pakistani government allows non-Muslims to drink and use alcohol, they must obtain a permit from the government to do so. Furthermore, people should only purchase alcohol from establishments that are licensed to offer it. They should not buy from local vendors because the drinks are handmade and can cause serious health problems.
Numerous liquor stores in Pakistan have alcohol sales licenses. Non-Muslim foreigners are allowed to consume alcohol in businesses with liquor licenses and can also apply for alcohol permits (“Politics of Boozing”).
In Pakistan, only non-Muslims with a permit are permitted to consume alcohol. Respecting regional customs and traditions, as well as sticking to alcohol consumption norms and restrictions, is critical.
How to Get Alcohol in Lahore as Tourists
Muslims are not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages under Pakistani legislation. Non-Muslims and foreigners must obtain consumption authorization from the provincial governments and the capital territory of Islamabad.
In the province of Punjab, liquor can be purchased only from authorized dealers as under:
LAHORE
- Pearl Continental Hotel, Mall Road. 042-36360210
- Holiday Inn, Egerton Road. 042-36310077
- Ambassador Hotel, Davis Road. 042-36316820-32
- Avari Hotel, Mall Road. 042-36366366
Liquor Permits
Only two below-mentioned categories of persons can consume liquor in Pakistan:
- Non-Muslim Citizens of Pakistan
- Non- Muslim Foreigners & Non-Muslim Tourists
Procedure to Obtain Permit
Foreigners or Tourists
Non-Muslim foreigners and non-muslim Tourists can obtain liquor permits from the Excise and Taxation Officer/Prohibition Officer of the district after visiting the following vend shops at prescribed times after submitting documents at the front offices of the hotels.
Required Documents
- Application Form duly filled in
- Permit Fee at the rate of PKR. 100/- per calendar month or part thereof
- Copy of Valid Passport
Citizens Of Pakistan
Non-Muslim Citizens of Pakistan can obtain liquor permits in form PR-I from the Excise & Taxation Offices situated in all the districts of Punjab after submitting the documents.
Required Documents
- Application Form duly filled in
- Permit Fee at the rate of PKR.50/- per calendar month or part thereof
- Copy of National Identity Card
- Certificate from the Religious Heads
Conclusion
As a result, because alcohol is strictly forbidden in Islam, Muslims in Pakistan are not permitted to consume it. It is recommended to observe local customs and traditions when visiting Pakistan, where non-Muslims can consume alcohol with special permission. It is also vital to be aware of the strict restrictions governing alcohol use and to refrain from any actions that could be interpreted as disrespectful or inappropriate.
