‘Dry days’ declared in dry state Gujarat’s Dang ahead of local body polls

Despite Gujarat being a ‘dry state’, the district administration in Dang has declared a prohibition on the sale and serving of liquor on select dates ahead of local self-government elections.

As per a notification issued by District Magistrate Shalini Duhan, liquor sales will be banned from 6 pm on April 24 to 6 pm on April 26 and again on April 28, in line with directives of the Election Commission to ensure free and fair polling.

The order has been issued under Section 142(1) of the Mumbai Prohibition Act, 1949, officials said.

The notification also states that in case of re-polling on April 27, the restriction will continue through that period. On April 28, the day of counting, the ban will remain in force until the completion of vote counting.

Authorities said the move is aimed at preventing the use of alcohol to influence voters and to maintain law and order during the electoral process.

Officials warned that any violation of the order would invite action under Section 135 of the Gujarat Police Act, 1951. Police officers of the rank of sub-inspector and above have been authorised to take action against offenders.