EC Orders 48-Hour Dry Day in Poll-Bound States Ahead of Voting

New Delhi, April 2026 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a 48-hour “Dry Day” in poll-bound regions of West Bengal and across Tamil Nadu to ensure free and fair elections, according to an official statement issued on Monday.

The directive, issued under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, prohibits the sale, service, and distribution of liquor during the 48 hours leading up to the close of polling in designated areas. The restriction applies to all establishments, including hotels, restaurants, taverns, clubs, and licensed shops.

Citing Section 135C of the Act, the poll body stated that no intoxicating substances—whether spirituous, fermented, or otherwise—can be made available in any public or private place within polling areas during this critical period. The order covers all entities holding licenses for the possession or sale of alcohol, including high-end venues such as star hotels and private clubs.

The Commission clarified that these establishments will not be permitted to serve liquor during the notified duration. State and Union Territory authorities have been directed to formally declare and enforce the Dry Day under relevant local laws, ensuring strict compliance throughout the election period.

In addition to regulating sales, authorities have also been instructed to monitor and enforce limits on the storage of liquor in unlicensed premises. This step is aimed at preventing illegal distribution and ensuring that no undue influence is exerted on voters through inducements.

The Dry Day provision will be enforced for each phase of polling, including any re-poll if required. Furthermore, similar restrictions will be in place on the day of counting of votes, scheduled for May 4, across all states and Union Territories where elections are being conducted.

The ECI had earlier announced the Assembly election schedule on March 15 for several states, including Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bypolls in six other states. Voting in Tamil Nadu and the first phase of polling in West Bengal will take place on April 23, while the second phase in West Bengal is scheduled for April 29.

The move is part of the Commission’s broader efforts to maintain electoral integrity and ensure that voters can exercise their franchise without any external pressure or inducement. By enforcing the Dry Day provision, the ECI aims to create a level playing field and uphold the principles of a transparent and impartial democratic process.