The state government's revised excise policy will allow liquor shops to stay open on three previously restricted holidays.
Nagpur: In a significant policy shift, the Maharashtra government has decided to allow liquor shops to remain open on Holi, Muharram, and Gandhi Jayanti — three occasions that have long been observed as mandatory "dry days" across the state, including in Nagpur.
The decision, announced by the state's Excise Department, marks one of the most notable changes to Maharashtra's alcohol sale regulations in recent years. Under the revised guidelines, licensed liquor outlets, bars, and restaurants will be permitted to operate normally on these holidays, which were previously subject to a blanket ban on alcohol sales.
Why the government says this was needed
Officials have cited two primary reasons for the policy change. First, dry days have historically triggered a spike in illegal alcohol sales and the distribution of counterfeit liquor — a serious public health concern. Second, mandatory shutdowns result in significant losses to the state's excise revenue, and the government believes regulated, legal sales are a better alternative to a thriving black market.
What changes for Nagpur residents
For Nagpurkars, this means that wine shops, bars, and licensed establishments will no longer be required to shut on these three days. However, it is important to note that Maharashtra will continue to observe dry days on other significant national events where law-and-order considerations are deemed critical. This is a selective relaxation, not a wholesale removal of dry day restrictions.
The debate it has sparked
The announcement has not gone without controversy. Critics — including social activists and political voices — have questioned the optics of permitting alcohol sales on Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, a noted advocate of prohibition. Religious groups have also raised concerns about allowing sales on Muharram. Supporters, however, argue that regulated sales are safer than driving consumption underground.
What's next
The revised policy is expected to come into effect ahead of the upcoming Holi festival. Citizens and business owners are advised to watch for the official notification from the Maharashtra Excise Department for the exact implementation date and any conditions attached.
