• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

The Delhi Excise Department has declared October 2 as an official dry day across Delhi-NCR, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. According to the notification, all liquor shops, pubs, bars, and restaurants in the national capital will remain closed. The day marks Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday, and also coincides with Dussehra, one of the most significant Hindu festivals.

The ban on alcohol sales, serving, and public consumption is strict and without exceptions. Authorities have warned that violators will face stringent penalties, with enforcement squads deployed across towns and cities to ensure compliance.

ALSO READ: Mumbai Dry Day: Liquor Shops Remain Closed In Financial Capital To Mark Gandhi Jayanti

On dry days, the sale and serving of alcohol is strictly prohibited at all licensed outlets, including both private and government-run establishments. The rule is intended to uphold the decorum of national holidays and religious festivals. The Excise Department has urged citizens to plan ahead, as enforcement teams will conduct strict checks to ensure compliance.

Diwali has not yet been designated as a dry day for October, though officials may announce updates later in the month.

Liquor Allowed In These Hotels 

Hotels holding L-15 and L-15F licenses are the only exceptions, permitted to serve liquor to in-house guests. All other establishments, from pubs to local vendors, must comply fully. The Excise Department has instructed that every shuttered outlet display a clear “Dry Day” notice, reinforcing the state’s firm stance.

Gandhi Jayanti Celebration 

Meanwhile, on Gandhi Jayanti, President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Modi, and other dignitaries paid their respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

"Gandhi Jayanti is about paying homage to the extraordinary life of beloved Bapu, whose ideals transformed the course of human history. He demonstrated how courage and simplicity could become instruments of great change. He believed in the power of service and compassion as essential means of empowering people. We will keep following his path in our quest to build a Viksit Bharat," the Prime Minister wrote.

ALSO READ: Dry Day On October 2: Bars, Liquor Shops To Remain Closed For Gandhi Jayanti; What About Diwali 2025? | Details

This year marks the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, revered as the Father of the Nation for his pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence. Born on October 2, 1869, Gandhi championed the principles of Satyagraha and non-violence. He led historic movements such as the 1930 Dandi March, where thousands marched to the sea to defy the salt law, and the 1942 Quit India Movement, a mass protest against British rule.