Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: The government have announced a statewide dry day in Kerala in the run-up to the Assembly elections 2026, banning the sale of alcohol for 48 hours before polling.

The restriction will take effect at 7 pm on April 7 and remain in place until the close of polling on April 9. During this period, all liquor sales across the state will be prohibited.

The measure is intended to maintain law and order and ensure the smooth conduct of the voting process.

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In addition, a dry day has also been declared on May 4, the day of vote counting. The alcohol sales will remain banned across the state on that day as well.

The directive follows guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) as part of efforts to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.