Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Mar 3: In view of upcoming bypolls, the Goa government has announced a six-day prohibition on the sale of alcohol from March 7 to 11 and on March 13 in Panaji and 14 panchayat wards. The ban covers retail outlets, bars, and restaurants.

Finance Under Secretary Naresh Gaude clarified that licensed restaurants may remain open to serve food, but bar counters must remain closed. Establishments are required to display a notice stating that only food will be served and liquor sales are suspended.

The directive, issued under the Goa Excise Duty Rules, also prohibits the transport of liquor within these election-bound areas. Individuals can possess a maximum of three quarts of Indian-made or foreign liquor (excluding beer) and six bottles of beer, including for family use, without a permit.

The panchayat wards affected by the bypolls include: Chandel-Hasapur, Mandrem, Piligao, Latambarcem, Pilerne Marra, Sirsaim, Salvador Do Mundo, Candolim, Aquem Baixo, Borim, Veling-Priol, Bhoma-Adcolna, Balli-Adnem, and Loliem.