Lockdown 3.0: Shops selling liquor, pan, gutka & tobacco allowed but with conditions

May 01: With the nationwide lockdown being extended for another two weeks on Friday till 17 May, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has allowed the sale of liquor, paan, gutka and tobacco, but with certain conditions. “Liquor stores and pan shops will be allowed to function in green zones while ensuring a minimum six feet distance (2 gaz ki doori) from each other and ensuring that not more than five persons are present at one time at the shop,” the statement from the MHA said. The ministry further mentioned that “consumption of liquor, paan, gutka, tobacco etc in public places is not allowed.”

The directive comes a little relief to the state governments as excise duty on liquor sales is a major revenue driver. However till now, Assam State government is yet to make any announcement on the opening of wine shops in the state of Assam.

The MHA also issued certain new guidelines to regulate activities during the extended lockdown, based on Red (hotspot), Green and Orange Zones. The guidelines have permitted considerable relaxations in the districts falling in the Green and Orange Zones. According to the new guidelines by the home ministry, the movement of individuals for all non-essential activities shall remain strictly prohibited between 7 pm and 7 am during the lockdown.