Chhattisgarh allows liquor sales on Holi, Muharram; sparks row

Liquor shops in Chhattisgarh will now remain open on Holi, Muharram, and Gandhi Nirvana Day as the state government reduces the number of dry days under its new excise policy, sparking debate among political and social groups.

The Chhattisgarh government has introduced a significant change to its excise policy, permitting liquor shops to operate on Holi, Muharram, and Gandhi Nirvana Day. This marks a departure from the previous regulation that mandated closures on these dates, which were traditionally observed as full dry days across the state. However, the move has invited sharp criticism from opposition parties and social organisations.

Officials in Raipur stated that the updated guidelines aim to address regulatory and practical challenges that arise during festival periods.

Liquor sales were earlier restricted on religious and national occasions to maintain order and respect social sensitivities.

According to the government, "the move aims to balance regulation with practical challenges faced during festival periods".

The revised policy lifts restrictions specifically for these days while retaining dry day status on select other occasions.

Proponents of the change argue it will help boost state revenue. As outlined by state officials, "Officials and government representatives argue that the decision will help increase state revenue, as alcohol demand typically peaks during major festivals".