West Bengal Extends Liquor Ban to 96 Hours Ahead of Assembly Polls

MP, April 21, 2026, Kolkata: On a day when the Election Commission of India (ECI) directed a 48-hour ‘Dry Day’ in poll-bound areas of West Bengal, the state Excise Department ordered an extension of the statutory closure period from 48 hours to 96 hours for both phases of the Assembly elections. Following the directive, all liquor shops remained closed from Monday.

“Liquor sales in Kolkata, Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas have been prohibited from today (Monday) for nine days, up to April 29. Outlets will remain open only on April 24,” said an official of the West Bengal Liquor Manufacturers, Wholesalers and Bonders Association.

Section 26 of the Bengal Excise Act, 1909, vests special powers in District Magistrates (outside Kolkata) and the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, to order closure of liquor shops for periods deemed necessary in the interest of public order and preventive regulation.

The Excise Commissioner’s directive states that the extraordinary measure is necessary to prevent misuse of liquor for electoral inducement, deter unlawful influence on voters, maintain public tranquillity, and ensure free and fair polls.

The order cites an unusual surge in retail liquor sales, with a sharp rise in lifting of packaged liquor from WBSBCL depots in April 2026 compared to last year. It also flags an increase in “sensitive shops” and multiple complaints suggesting possible use of liquor to influence voters.

The ECI’s restriction under Section 135C applies to all licensed establishments, including clubs, star hotels and restaurants. The first phase of polling is scheduled for April 23, followed by the second phase on April 29. The ‘Dry Day’ will also extend to the counting day on May 4.

Authorities have been directed to strictly enforce limits on liquor storage in unlicensed premises.