Prohibition of Alcohol Sales in Assam Ahead of Upcoming Elections

In preparation for the upcoming elections to the Mising Autonomous Council and Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council, Assam has declared a ban on alcohol sales and consumption in 11 districts from November 28 to December 3. This prohibition, enforced under the Representation of the People Act, aims to ensure a smooth electoral process. The restrictions will apply to all liquor outlets and establishments, with legal consequences for violations. The affected districts include Biswanath, Charaideo, Dhemaji, and others. The ban will remain in effect until the counting of votes is completed, highlighting the state's commitment to maintaining order during the elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 11, 2026, 11:43 IST

Alcohol Ban in Assam for Upcoming Elections

A file image of a voter casting vote. (Photo: PTI)

Guwahati, Nov 11: In light of the general elections for the Mising Autonomous Council (MAC) and Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council (SKAC) scheduled for 2026, the sale and consumption of alcohol will be banned in 11 districts of Assam from November 28 to December 3.

The Excise department has enforced this prohibition under Section 135C of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, along with Rule 326(A) of the Assam Excise Rules, 2016.

As per the directive from the Commissioner and Secretary of the Assam Government, these restrictions will take effect 48 hours prior to the polling date, which is set for November 30, and will remain until the voting process concludes.

November 30, the polling day, along with December 1 for any potential repolling, and December 3 for counting, will also be designated as dry days. The restrictions will persist until the counting is finalized.

The districts affected by this order include Biswanath, Charaideo, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Golaghat, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Majuli, Sivasagar, Sonitpur, and Tinsukia.

During this timeframe, all wholesale liquor warehouses, retail Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) outlets, bars, hotel liquor shops, and country liquor establishments will be closed.

The ban encompasses the sale, distribution, supply, and consumption of alcoholic beverages and other intoxicants. This applies to hotels, restaurants, and all public and private venues within the specified districts.

Additionally, the order prohibits unauthorized possession and storage of alcohol during this restricted period. Authorities have cautioned that any liquor found in unauthorized locations will lead to penalties under the Assam Excise Act and Rules.

Any violations of this order will result in legal repercussions under the Assam Excise Act and Rules, as well as Section 135C of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Staff Reporter