This is important! Maharashtra Excise Commissioner Rajesh Deshmukh has now dismissed reports of the government cancelling statutory dry days for Holi, Muharram, and Gandhi Jayanti. He called it ‘fake news’ and said there are no changes in the existing liquor policy. Scroll down to know more.
No Change In Maharashtra’s Dry Days
According to a report by The Economic Times, this clarification comes after several posts circulated on social media claiming the ban on the sale of liquor on Holi, Muharram, and Gandhi Jayanti had been revoked. According to Maharashtra Excise Commissioner Rajesh Deshmukh, the state will continue to enforce eight mandatory dry days under the Maharashtra Prohibition Act.
This means the existing liquor policy remains unchanged. People should not believe reports claiming otherwise. As per the existing rules, liquor remains prohibited in Maharashtra on these days:
- January 26 (Republic Day)
- January 30 (Martyrs’ Day)
- May 1 (Maharashtra Day)
- Ashadhi Ekadashi
- August 15 (Independence Day)
- Anant Chaturdashi
- October 2 (Gandhi Jayanti)
- Kartiki Ekadashi
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Officials Warn Against Fake Social Media Reports
According to The Economic Times, Maharashtra Excise Commissioner Rajesh Deshmukh also stated that under Section 142 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, district collectors have the power to declare additional dry days within their respective jurisdictions. Officials have urged citizens not to believe unverified social media posts regarding changes in excise rules.
Social media is full of false claims, and many unsuspecting users fall for unverified news. In another development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said licences of orchestra bars will be cancelled in cases of repeated violations. According to a report by Mid-Day, establishments will be heard and penalised for violations three to four times. However, in case of repeated offences, orchestra bars will face strict action.
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So, it is now clear that there are no changes in Maharashtra’s dry days.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Giselleflissak (Representative Image)