IMPHAL, January 20: The government has announced complete ‘dry days’, including those categories previously exempted under the Manipur Liquor Prohibition Act, from January 26 to 28 and on March 6, the day of counting of votes. The ban extends to military, para-military, armed police and Manipur Rifles.
The order released by the commissioner of excise, Sumant Singh, states that the ban which was enforced following instructions from the state chief electoral officer will come into effect from 3pm of Republic Day till 3pm of Election Day and the whole of poll result day.
The order also prohibits possession, storage and consumption of liquor by individuals belonging to scheduled tribe and scheduled caste categories during the above periods and says the restriction provided in the excise laws on the storage and possession of liquor in unlicensed premises shall apply to all categories of persons.