Image description

In the midst of a dispute with the Centre over the new excise charge, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia announced on Saturday that only government-run liquor stores would be open starting on Monday, August 1, till a new excise policy was implemented.

"We have ordered the opening of government liquor stores and revoked the new excise policy. At a press conference, Sisodia stated, "I have instructed the chief secretary to make sure there is no turmoil during the transition phase.

A serious crisis in the availability of alcohol in the national capital will result from the ruling, which also means that 468 private liquor stores will close starting on Monday.

"A new excise policy has to be announced by the Delhi administration. Before this rule, alcohol was sold in government stores. Private businesses did exist, but Sisodia said that they were usually given to family members.