• Source:JND

Maharashtra Assembly Election: The Election Commission of India has announced a ban on the sale of alcohol across Mumbai, Pune and various other cities in Maharashtra for four days during the election period. This measure aims to ensure that the polling process proceeds without any disruptions.

Previously, on November 12, Mumbai and several other cities, including Thane and Pune, observed a dry day in observance of Kartik Ekadashi. Dry days are designated times when the sale of alcohol is completely prohibited, typically during significant national, religious, or cultural events.

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The prohibition will be in effect leading up to and during the voting process. The elections in Maharashtra are scheduled for November 20, covering all 2,800 assembly constituencies.

Key dates for the alcohol ban include:

November 18: Alcohol sales will be prohibited in Mumbai and surrounding cities after 6 PM.

November 19: A full dry day will be observed in Mumbai, the day before the assembly elections.

November 20: On voting day, the sale of alcohol will remain banned in Mumbai until 6 PM.

November 23: The ban will continue until 6 PM on the counting day.

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In addition to the alcohol ban, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has declared a holiday for its employees on November 20, allowing them to participate in the elections. BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the alcohol ban during this period. This initiative is part of the efforts to maintain order and ensure a smooth electoral process in the state.