The order, dated October 8, directs all retail liquor vends operating under specified licence categories to remain closed on Friday and Saturday as a preventive measure.

Why are protests taking place in Delhi?

The liquor shop closure comes amid demonstrations by Opposition parties and other groups over the SIR exercise and allegations of irregularities in the electoral process.

The excise department’s order cites the prevailing situation and inputs from Delhi Police, saying the closure is intended to prevent disruptions to public order. An official told The Times of India that all retail liquor shops across Delhi would be shut because a limited, area-wise closure might not be sufficient to achieve the objective.

Which liquor shops will remain closed?

The order covers retail liquor vends operating under the following licence categories:

• L-6 and L-6FG: Retail outlets selling Indian and foreign liquor

• L-8: Retail outlets selling country liquor

• L-10: Liquor outlets located inside malls

• L-14: Outlets selling beer under the specified licence category

These retail outlets will remain closed across Delhi on October 9 and 10.

Will bars and restaurants also remain closed?

No. The closure applies to retail liquor shops and does not extend to licensed restaurants, bars, and clubs. According to an official quoted by The Times of India, these establishments can continue serving liquor as usual.