Liquor Sale Banned In Lucknow On Holi, Alcohol And Cannabis Shops To Remain Closed

Lucknow District Magistrate Surya Pal Gangwar has issued an order banning liquor sales on March 25, the day of Holi, in an effort to maintain public peace. The order copy, shared by news agency ANI, states, “For the purpose of maintaining public peace on the occasion of Holi, I, Surya Pal Gangwar, District Magistrate, Lucknow, under Section 59 of the Uttar Pradesh Excise Act, direct that all liquor shops, including those selling country liquor, foreign liquor, beer, model shops, cannabis, toddy, bar licenses, and other related permissions, will remain completely closed on 25.03.2024.”

Liquor sale on 25th March, on the occasion of Holi, has been banned. All the liquor, beer, toddy and cannabis shops will remain closed: Lucknow DM Surya Pal Gangwar pic.twitter.com/PTmzBg9M8q

— ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2024

Section 144 Imposed In Lucknow Till May 17

Earlier this week, Section 144 was imposed in Lucknow till May 17. JCP Law and Order Upendra Kumar Agrawal issued the order earlier this month for a period that covers elections, Holi, and Ramadan. Violations will be met with appropriate action.

The directive further includes measures to ensure compliance, stating, “All political parties, individuals, workers, organizations, and associations associated with the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024 in Lucknow must adhere to the Model Code of Conduct. Section 144 has been issued from 19.03.2024 to enforce this.”

The order also prohibits burning effigies, spreading rumours, and disseminating false information through various mediums. Distribution companies in Lucknow are required to conduct police verification of distribution staff prior to their appointment. Property owners must verify tenants before renting out their premises.

Non-compliance by distribution staff or tenants may result in legal action against both the service provider and property owner. E-rickshaw owners and drivers are also subject to mandatory police verification. Failure to adhere to the order until 17.05.2024 will lead to continued enforcement.

The measures are aimed at ensuring a peaceful and orderly environment during the festive period, with strict penalties for any violations.