The district administration has announced dry days across Guwahati (Kamrup Metropolitan district) ahead of the Assam Assembly elections to ensure peaceful and orderly polling.
As per the order issued by the District Commissioner, the restrictions will be in force from 5:00 PM on April 7 to 5:00 PM on April 9, covering the entire polling period.
Guwahati will observe dry days from April 7 (5 PM) to April 9 (5 PM) and again on May 4 for vote counting. During this period, all liquor sales and services will be banned to ensure peaceful elections in the city.
Complete Ban on Alcohol Sales in Guwahati
During the dry period, all liquor-related activities in Guwahati will be strictly prohibited.
This includes:
- Wholesale and retail liquor shops
- Bonded warehouses
- Outlets selling IMFL and country liquor
All such establishments will remain closed until the restrictions are lifted.
Bars, Hotels, and Restaurants Also Affected
The order extends beyond shops to include:
- Bars and pubs
- Clubs
- Hotels and restaurants serving alcohol
No sale or service of alcohol will be permitted anywhere in Guwahati during the notified period.
Local Production Units to Suspend Operations
Authorities have also directed:
- Local brewing units
- Small-scale liquor manufacturing facilities
to suspend operations during the dry days to ensure complete enforcement.
Additional Dry Day on Counting Day
A separate dry day has been declared for May 4, the day of the vote counting.
The ban will remain in effect until the counting process is completed across Guwahati.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
Dry days are imposed to:
- Maintain law and order
- Prevent disturbances during polling
- Ensure a peaceful voting environment
In a major urban centre like Guwahati, such measures are considered essential during elections.
Strict Action for Violations
Authorities have warned that any violation of the order will result in:
- Legal action against license holders
- Penalties under relevant laws
Residents and businesses in Guwahati have been urged to comply fully with the directive.
What Happens Next
The restrictions will begin on the evening of April 7, coinciding with the silence period, and remain in place until polling concludes on April 9.
Normal operations are expected to resume after the ban is lifted.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When are dry days in Guwahati for the elections?
Dry days are from April 7 (5 PM) to April 9 (5 PM), and again on May 4 for vote counting.
2. Can alcohol be served in hotels or restaurants during this period?
No, all forms of alcohol sale and service are strictly prohibited across Guwahati.