According to excise department’s directive, the closure of liquor shops is in line with the observance of these significant days.

On the occasion of major religious festivals like Guru Nanak Jayanti, and Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas, alcohol sale at liquor shops is prohibited as these days are recognized as dry days.

L-15 and L-15F licence holders allowed to serve liquor

It should be noted that hotels holding L-15 and L-15F licenses are authorized to serve liquor to their resident guests.

Clarifying that no compensation will be provided to licensed shop owners over the suspension of liquor sales during these dry days, the excise department instructed licensees to strictly comply with the order. Any violation of the order would attract penalties and fines.

The order does not apply to consumption of alcohol in hotels that meet the licensing requirements but exclusively to the retail sale of alcohol.

Concept of dry days

In India, "dry days" are specific days when the sale of alcohol is prohibited, usually due to religious, cultural, or national observances. Common dry days include national holidays like Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti, as well as various religious festivals depending on the state.

Additionally, during elections, dry days are enforced to prevent alcohol-related disruptions. State governments determine specific dry days, so they vary by region.

Bars, restaurants, and liquor shops suspend alcohol sales during these periods.