Liquor shops and bars across the state reopened from Thursday morning after days of election-related restrictions imposed by the Election Commission of India.
All licensed outlets resumed operations from 10 AM, following instructions issued by the Excise Department. The reopening saw a noticeable rush, with crowds gathering outside shops early in the day.
The restrictions were part of standard electoral guidelines aimed at maintaining law and order during polling. Liquor shops and bars had remained shut since April 20 ahead of the first phase of voting.
However, in a brief relaxation, authorities allowed shops to open for a single day on April 24 before enforcing closures again for the subsequent phase.
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What’s next: May 4 shutdown
The current window allows liquor shops to operate normally until 11 PM on May 3. But the curbs will return on the vote-counting day.
On May 4, all liquor shops and bars across the state will remain completely closed. The restrictions will be lifted the following day, with regular operations resuming from 10 AM on May 5.
An Excise Department official confirmed, “Liquor shops and bars will remain closed on May 4 due to vote counting. From May 5 morning, they will reopen as usual.”
Quick FAQs on Liquor Sales
When did liquor shops reopen?
: From 10 AM on Thursday, as per the Excise Department orders.
Why were they closed earlier?
: Due to election guidelines mandating closure before and during the polling phases.
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Were they opened in between?
: Yes, shops were allowed to operate for one day on April 24.
Until when will shops remain open now?
: Until 11 PM on May 3.
What happens on May 4 (counting day)?
: Complete shutdown of liquor shops and bars across the state.
When will they reopen again?
: From 10 AM on May 5, normal operations resume.
