New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed the enforcement of “dry days” in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, prohibiting the sale and consumption of alcohol during the specified period.
In its directive issued on Monday, the poll body instructed both states to enforce a ban on the service of intoxicating drinks for 48 hours leading up to the close of polling, in accordance with Section 135C of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
The provision mandates that no liquor shall be sold, distributed, or consumed in public during the 48-hour period ending with the conclusion of voting in the concerned state.
Tamil Nadu, which will go to polls in a single phase on April 23, will observe the dry period accordingly.
West Bengal, where elections are scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29, will be required to enforce the prohibition ahead of both polling dates.
The move is aimed at ensuring free and fair elections by preventing undue influence on voters and maintaining public order during the electoral process.
