The Delhi excise department has officially announced five designated dry days for the January to March period of 2026. This order restricts the sale of liquor across the city on these specific dates.
Key Details of the Excise Order
According to the official notification, the dry days will apply to all liquor shops and vendors in Delhi. The restriction aims to control alcohol consumption during certain observances and events.
Important Exemption for Hotels
The excise order includes a significant exemption clause. Hotels holding L-15 and 15 F licenses will not face these restrictions when serving liquor to their registered residents.
This means guests staying at these licensed hotels can still purchase and consume alcohol on the dry days. The exemption applies specifically to in-house service for hotel residents.
What This Means for Delhi Residents
For most Delhi residents, the five dry days mean liquor shops will remain closed. People will need to plan their purchases accordingly around these restricted dates.
The hotel exemption provides an alternative for visitors and tourists staying in licensed accommodations. They can continue to enjoy alcohol service during their stay.
Implementation and Compliance
The excise department expects all establishments to comply strictly with the dry day restrictions. Regular monitoring and enforcement actions are planned to ensure proper implementation.
Hotel managers with the specified licenses must verify resident status before serving alcohol on dry days. Proper documentation and record-keeping will be essential for compliance.
Broader Context and Impact
Dry days are a regular feature in Delhi's excise policy, typically aligned with national holidays, elections, and religious observances. The January-March period often includes several such occasions.
The current order balances restriction with practical considerations through the hotel exemption. This approach acknowledges tourism and hospitality needs while maintaining control measures.
Residents and businesses should check the specific dates designated as dry days to avoid inconvenience. The excise department will likely issue reminders as each date approaches.
