City Desk, Delhi Magazine: The Delhi government has announced four dry days between July and September, encompassing key religious festivals and Independence Day. In an order issued on Tuesday, the Delhi government’s Excise Department outlined that liquor shops will remain closed on Muharram (July 17), Independence Day (August 15), Janmashtami (August 26), and Eid-e-Milad (September 16).
The directive emphasizes that in addition to liquor shops, hotels, clubs, and restaurant-bars will also be prohibited from serving liquor on these designated days. This restriction is aimed at maintaining the sanctity of these significant occasions and ensuring public order during celebrations and observances.
However, the order specifies an exception for certain establishments. Hotels holding L-15 and L-15F licenses will not be subject to the ban and will be permitted to serve liquor to their guests even on Independence Day. This provision ensures that guests staying in these hotels can continue to enjoy their usual amenities without interruption.
The decision to implement dry days during these periods is a customary practice intended to honor the cultural and religious sentiments associated with these dates. Muharram, observed by the Muslim community, marks the mourning of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. Independence Day commemorates the nation’s freedom from British rule and is a significant patriotic event. Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, and Eid-e-Milad marks the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad.
The Delhi government’s move is in line with efforts to maintain public decorum and respect for diverse religious traditions. Compliance with this directive will be closely monitored by the Excise Department, and strict action will be taken against establishments found violating the order.
Residents and visitors in Delhi are advised to plan their activities accordingly, keeping in mind these dry days, and to cooperate with the authorities in ensuring the smooth implementation of the order.