Dry days in Delhi: National capital to observe two back-to-back no-alcohol days on Independence Day and Janmashtami

Delhi will witness consecutive dry days this week, with all liquor shops ordered to remain closed on August 15, Independence Day, and August 16, Janmashtami. This directive comes from the Delhi government's excise department under Rule 52 of the Delhi Excise Rules, 2010.

According to the excise department's order, all retail liquor shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, and clubs must shut down on Independence Day. Additionally, the same restrictions will apply on October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. These dry days are observed annually to mark important national and religious occasions.

Exceptions to the dry day rule
The order clarified that the dry day restrictions will not affect room service of alcohol in hotels that hold 1-15/L-15F licences. These licences are granted to star-classified hotels approved by the tourism department of the Government of India.

Such hotels are permitted to serve alcohol to their guests through room service, reflecting a balance between tradition and hospitality services. The excise department emphasised that this exemption is strictly limited to these licensed hotels and does not extend to other establishments.

Rule 52 of the Delhi Excise Rules, 2010, mandates the closure of liquor outlets on specified dry days to promote public order and respect significant cultural and national events. These regulations have been enforced by Delhi police and excise officials to ensure compliance.

Violations of dry day rules can lead to penalties including fines and suspension or cancellation of liquor licences. The Delhi government issues such orders ahead of important dates each year, and businesses are expected to comply fully.