Saudi official denies lifting of alcohol ban ahead of FIFA World Cup 2034: Report
Riyadh: A Saudi Arabian official has denied reports about lifting the long-standing alcohol ban that has been in place in the Kingdom for over 70 years, according to news agency Reuters.
Several media outlets had suggested that Saudi authorities were considering allowing controlled alcohol sales in anticipation of hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup. However, the source of this information was not identified.
The report sparked an online debate among people in the region, which is home to Islam's most revered sites — Mecca and Medina.
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are the only Gulf countries that prohibit the sale of alcohol. However, in a move to ease restrictions, the first alcohol store in Riyadh was opened last year, exclusively serving non-Muslim diplomats.
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Congress’ Umesh Meti wins Bagalkot bypoll
Bagalkot: The Congress has secured a victory in the Bagalkot Assembly by-election, with its candidate Umesh Meti winning the seat after maintaining a lead from the first round of counting till the end.
The seat had fallen vacant following the death of sitting MLA H Y Meti. Umesh Meti, his son, has now been elected to the Assembly.
Party leaders attributed the victory to a combination of factors, including sympathy votes, the state government’s schemes, and campaign strategies led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and senior leader Satish Jarkiholi.
The Congress maintained a consistent lead throughout the counting process, eventually securing a decisive win in the constituency.
