Thiruvananthapuram: Due to the upcoming Assembly elections, there will be no liquor sales in Kerala for 2 days. The ban will be in effect from Tuesday evening until the close of polling on Thursday evening. Liquor sales will also be prohibited on the counting day, May 4.

The ‘dry day’ will come into force 48 hours before the end of polling on April 9. Accordingly, liquor shops across Kerala will remain closed from 7 PM on Tuesday. They will stay shut on Wednesday as well and will reopen only after polling concludes on Thursday evening.

If re-polling is required in any constituency or polling booth, those areas will also observe a dry day on the day of re-polling. Liquor outlets will remain closed across the state on May 4, the counting day.

As per Section 135C of the Representation of People Act, the Election Commission has mandated that no intoxicants can be sold or distributed during the 48 hours leading up to the end of polling. This ban applies to all establishments serving liquor, including bars, hotels, restaurants, and clubs. Even star hotels, clubs, and other licensed venues are not permitted to serve alcohol during this period.

Strict restrictions have also been imposed on storing liquor. Tight checks will be carried out at state borders to prevent illegal transportation of alcohol from neighbouring states.

Authorities have instructed the Excise Department and police to take strict action against those violating excise laws.