It's A Dry Day in Haryana Today, Liquor Shops Within 3-Km Radius Shut In 4 Bordering States Too

Liquor shops will remain closed statewide in Haryana and adjacent border regions on October 8 to maintain public order and prevent electoral interference.

Haryana Dry Day: With the counting of votes for Haryana's Assembly elections going on across the state’s 90 constituencies, stringent security measures are in place to ensure a smooth process. In line with these measures, liquor shops across Haryana have been ordered to remain closed, according to the Haryana Election Commission. The closure of liquor outlets, or a “dry day”, is aimed at maintaining public order during the counting.

The Election Commission stated that the dry day directive extends to border regions within three kilometers of Haryana in neighbouring states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh, where too liquor stores are shut. This statewide prohibition follows an earlier closure on October 3, the final day of campaigning, through polling day on October 5. 

During the voting period, the state recorded a turnout of 67.90 percent.

With 1,031 candidates competing for the 90 seats, including 464 independents and 101 women, this election is particularly significant for Haryana's political landscape. Voting was conducted in a single phase, with results expected to define the upcoming political alignment in the state.

Why Are Dry Days Enforced?

Dry days in India are observed for several reasons, often coinciding with national and religious holidays to honour cultural sentiments, including respect for religious events and tribute to soldiers and freedom fighters. Elections are another crucial time when liquor sales are suspended, helping maintain law and order in anticipation of heightened activity and emotions during the vote count and result announcements.

In Delhi also, as per the orders from the excise department of the Delhi government, liquor shops across the national capital will remain closed on a few days in October and November. The says coincide with key national holidays and religious festivals. In October, liquor shops will remain shut in Delhi on October 12 (Vijaya Dashami), October 17 (Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti), and October 31 (Diwali). There will be two dry days next month also — November 15 (Guru Nanak Jayanti) and November 24 (Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas).