The Government of Maharashtra has ended the long-standing practice of declaring dry days on Holi, Muharram and Gandhi Jayanti, allowing licensed liquor shops to remain open on these occasions.
The decision marks a significant shift in the state’s excise policy, which traditionally required alcohol sales to stop on certain religious and national holidays. Officials said the change is part of a broader review of excise rules aimed at improving regulation and plugging revenue leaks.
According to government sources, dry days often led to a spike in illegal liquor sales. Despite official bans, alcohol continued to be sold in many areas through unauthorized channels, often at inflated prices and without safety checks. By permitting licensed outlets to operate, authorities hope to bring sales under supervision and reduce black-market activity.
The excise department also expects the move to increase state revenue, particularly on high-demand festival days. Officials said clearer retail guidelines and stronger enforcement would support better compliance. The revised policy takes effect immediately, with detailed operational guidelines to be issued by the excise department.
While the government says key national events linked to law-and-order concerns (like election results day) will continue to be observed as dry days.