Residents of Delhi will have to plan their purchases earlier this weekend, as the Delhi Excise Department has reduced the operating hours of all liquor shops across the national capital by two hours. Under the revised schedule, liquor vends that normally remain open until 10:00 PM will now close at 8:00 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The decision has been taken following recommendations from the Delhi Police in view of the ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar.
According to officials, the move is a temporary precautionary measure aimed at maintaining law and order during the continuing demonstrations in central Delhi. Police reportedly shared intelligence inputs indicating that anti-social elements could attempt to exploit the situation, prompting the Excise Department to shorten business hours for liquor outlets across the city.
A senior Excise Department official said the revised timings have already come into effect, while a formal government order is being issued. The department acted after receiving directions from the Delhi Police, which requested preventive measures to reduce the possibility of disturbances around sensitive areas during the weekend.
The restrictions come as student-led protests over the alleged NEET paper leak continue at Jantar Mantar under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Demonstrations in recent days have resulted in heightened security arrangements across central Delhi, with heavy deployment of police personnel and additional barricading in several locations.
The impact of the protests has extended beyond liquor shop timings. Authorities have also imposed restrictions on public transport in parts of the city. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has temporarily closed 18 metro stations in central Delhi, while access to several key areas remains restricted due to security concerns.
Officials clarified that the early closure is not a dry day and liquor sales will continue during normal business hours until 8:00 PM. Customers are being advised to complete their purchases well before closing time to avoid inconvenience. If the security situation improves after the weekend, the normal 10:00 PM closing schedule is expected to be restored.
The Delhi Police have appealed to residents to cooperate with temporary restrictions and avoid unnecessary travel around protest-affected areas. Security agencies say the measures are intended to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incidents while the demonstrations continue. Authorities are expected to review the situation after the weekend before deciding whether any further restrictions are required.