Mumbai: Raza Academy Protests Against and Opposes Introduction of Alcohol Sales in Saudi Arabia

Mumbai, 25th January 2024: Raza Academy has vehemently expressed its dissent and objection to the planned introduction of alcohol sales in Saudi Arabia, denouncing the Saudi government’s decision to allow the establishment of a liquor store in Riyadh as a perilous course that could lead to the moral deterioration of the nation’s Muslim youth. Concerns are mounting as reports from various media outlets signal the imminent inauguration of the liquor store, amplifying apprehensions about the potential societal consequences of such a move.

The situation is marked by irony, as the birthplace of the Quran is witnessing the establishment of cinemas and the forthcoming launch of bars, all purportedly in the name of enforcing Islamic laws in Saudi Arabia. Despite claims of adherence to Islamic values, these actions are perceived as conflicting with fundamental Islamic principles. The discrepancy is evident, and it appears that, contrary to the saying of Hazrat Ali, where the land yields grass when a drop of alcohol falls into a well, Islamic values are being disregarded.

Despite Saudi Arabia’s economic prosperity driven by oil reserves and the recent discovery of a substantial gold deposit, resulting in the extraction of 200,000 kilograms of gold last year, the decision to open a liquor store for financial gain remains perplexing.

While there is an assertion that the sale of alcohol will be limited to non-Muslims, concerns persist about the lax enforcement of restrictions on the sale and purchase of alcohol. The discreet prevalence of alcohol consumption in society may be further emboldened by the government’s initiation.

Regrettably, following the announcement of cinema construction, the Saudi government has now lifted the ban on alcohol sales, intensifying dismay among the populace. There is growing apprehension that the unregulated sale and consumption of alcohol may become commonplace, contradicting Islamic teachings.

Saeed Noori, a representative of Raza Academy, has implored the Saudi government to reconsider its decision. He emphasized that such actions may provoke the wrath of Allah upon non-Muslims and urged the government to refrain from openly opposing the Quran and Sunnah. Noori has earnestly appealed for the withdrawal of this controversial plan, warning that failure to do so could expose Saudi Arabia to the disapproval of the wider Islamic world.