Sikkim wine shops reopen amid lockdown .... The wine stores will be open from 9am to 5pm

Rajeev Ravidas, TT, 21.04.20, Gangtok: After nearly a month of Coronavirus- induced prohibition, wine shops throughout the Sikkim opened on Monday, much to the relief of the parched tipplers thirsty for a swig or three of their favourite quencher.

The state government has set conditions like social distancing for the reopening. No official could be contacted to know why the liquor shops are allowed to open during the lockdown.

According to the national directives issued on April 15 for Covid-19 management, there is a strict ban on sale of liquor, gutka and tobacco.
The wine shops had been under locks since the midnight of March 24, barely four hours after Prime Minister Narendra Moth had announced the countrywide lockdown to stop the spread of the pathogen. This provided very little time for tipplers to replenish the stock to last the initial 21- day lockdown period since liquor outlets close by 9 pm.
"Yes, it is such a relief to be able to buy my liquor. I am not the sort to keep drinks at home since I mostly drink with friends outside or, when partying at home, I get my stuff as per requirement. I managed with bottles borrowed from friends for the initial few days of the lockdown, but it later became very difficult," said a Gangtok resident.
While allowing the reopening of the wine stores, the state government has put in place stringent guidelines besides limiting business time from 9am to 5pm. The shop owners have been asked to ensure social distancing of their customers, conduct business with no more than two persons at a given time and wear mask at all times, among others.
"Not more than 3 customers are allowed at any shop at a particular time, and in order to avoid overcrowding, the staff of the particular FLR (foreign liquor retail) shop may direct the customers to other nearby shops or make the customers wait outside the shop by following social distancing norms. It is the sole responsibility of the shops to ensure that customers are following social distancing," said the guidelines issued by the state excise department.