Assam: No Dry Days During Durga Puja, Announces CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has declared that there will be no restrictions on liquor sales during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations in the state.
Addressing concerns about potential dry days during the festival, the Chief Minister explained that limiting alcohol sales could lead to a surge in the black market.
Himanta Biswa Sarma stated, “If we impose restrictions on liquor sales, black marketers would immediately begin hoarding and selling them during Puja. This would result in negative media coverage, blaming the government.”
He mentioned that the government might consider implementing dry days based on specific requirements and situations.
Sarma noted that some tribes in Assam have their own rituals that involve consuming alcohol during such festivals. He added, “Even alcohol is required for certain rituals at the Kamakhya Temple.”
The final decision on whether to announce a dry day during Puja will be made after assessing the potential impact on accidents, although the specific day was not disclosed.