The Excise Department of the Delhi government has announced that liquor shops across the national capital will remain closed on six specific days in October and November, marking significant national holidays and religious festivals. The department's directive, issued on Friday, highlights these closures in alignment with key cultural and religious observances.
According to the Commissioner of Excise's order, liquor shops will remain shut on October 2 (Gandhi Jayanti), October 12 (Vijaya Dashami), October 17 (Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti), and October 31 (Diwali) in October. The closures continue in November, with shops closed on November 15 (Guru Nanak Jayanti) and November 24 (Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas).
These dry days are in accordance with the observance of these significant events, reflecting the cultural and spiritual importance they hold. The Excise Department clarified that no compensation will be provided to licensees for the suspension of liquor sales on these days, though hotels with L-15 and L-15F licenses can still serve alcohol to residents.
Additionally, the department has mandated that all licensees must display the closure notice prominently at their premises. Liquor shops are expected to fully comply with the restrictions, ensuring that their business premises remain closed on the designated dry days.
This announcement follows a longstanding tradition of observing dry days on key holidays in India, highlighting the balance between public policy and cultural sensitivities.
