Bathinda panchayat bans alcohol, DJs during weddings

In order to promote cultural heritage, Ballo panchayat in Bathinda has announced a cash incentive of Rs 21,000 for families, who opt for solemn marriage ceremonies without serving alcohol to guests and hiring disk jockeys (DJs).

The initiative aims to curb extravagance expenditure, reduce alcohol abuse and foster peaceful environment during celebrations.

The panchayat members highlighted growing concerns over excessive spending and disturbance caused by high-decibel music at social events.

They said the initiative would encourage the villagers to embrace sober and meaningful celebrations, aligned with Punjabi culture.

Under the scheme, families organising alcohol and DJ-free weddings would be awarded Rs 21,000 as ‘shagun’ (a token of blessing) by the village panchayat.

Sarpanch Amarjit Kaur said, “We want to set an example for other villages by promoting discipline and responsibility during family events. Weddings should symbolise joy and harmony, not chaos or overindulgence.”

Ravinder Singh, a local, said, “It is a step in the right direction. Extravagant weddings put unnecessary pressure on families. Simple celebrations keep focus on sacredness of the occasion.”

However, some younger residents expressed skepticism, questioning whether the incentive would be enough to bring a change.

In recent years, similar steps have been taken in other states to discourage wasteful spending.The Ballo panchayat’s resolution reflects a shift towards fostering a balanced approach to celebrations, blending modern practices with age-old traditions.

Other resolutions passed by the panchayat include free coaching for the youth preparing for Civil sSrvices exam and free seeds under the Guru Nanak Bagichi Scheme for the villagers who opt for organic farming. Further, the panchayat would honour a man and a woman for doing community service with Rs 11,000 on martyrdom day of Shaheed Bhagat Singh.

The panchayat has also banned the sale of energy drinks in the village.