96-hour liquor ban in Bengal ahead of polls as EC flags ‘unusual’ sales surge

Typically imposed 48 hours before voting, the restriction has already kicked in across constituencies going to polls on Thursday.

The decision comes after the Commission observed an “unusual spurt” in liquor sales, along with a sharp rise in stock movement from state depots in April compared to the same period last year.

Concerns over election integrity

According to the poll body, there has also been a notable increase in “sensitive” liquor shops, identified based on established monitoring criteria.

Inputs from multiple surveillance mechanisms pointed to higher-than-normal liquor activity, raising concerns about its potential impact on free and fair voting.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar reiterated that authorities will “leave no stone unturned” to ensure transparent elections, warning that no government or local body official will be allowed to influence the process.

High-stakes political battle

The move comes amid a high-voltage contest between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party, with the BJP aiming to unseat the incumbent government.

Tensions between the Trinamool Congress and the Election Commission have been simmering, with the ruling party accusing the poll body of bias—allegations the Commission has firmly denied.

The reshuffling of bureaucrats and police officials since the poll announcement has further intensified the standoff.

With the ban now in force, liquor sales have stopped in polling areas as authorities tighten checks to prevent inducements and maintain order during the crucial voting phase.