Dry Days In Delhi: Liquor Sale Banned For Polls; All Wine Shops, Bars Will Be Closed

In preparation for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections, the Union Territory's liquor establishments will observe mandatory closures during key electoral periods. The excise commissioner has declared multiple "Dry Days" to ensure the electoral process remains uninfluenced.

Liquor shops and related establishments will be completely shut from 6 pm on February 3 to 6 pm on February 5, 2025. An additional full-day closure is scheduled for February 8, which is designated as the vote counting day.

The directive, issued on January 15 under Rule 52 of the Delhi Excise Rules 2010, comprehensively prohibits the sale and service of alcohol. This restriction applies not only to liquor shops but also extends to hotels, clubs, restaurants, and other establishments holding liquor licenses.

Both proprietary and non-proprietary establishments must strictly adhere to these guidelines, effectively creating a complete alcohol sales blackout during these specified periods.

The election campaign concluded at 5 p.m. on Monday, marking the end of an intense political battle characterised by spirited campaigning, political satire, and numerous voter-focused promises. Voters will cast their ballots in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) on February 5, determining the electoral outcome.

The upcoming Delhi Assembly election showcases a slight increase in candidate participation compared to the previous election. This year's contest features 699 candidates, a modest rise from the 672 candidates who contested in the 2020 poll.

The main contenders in the Delhi Assembly election are the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Indian National Congress.