Dry Day Tomorrow? Which States Are Affected By The No-Alcohol Rule On Counting Day, May 4?

As India prepares for the counting of votes in key assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has announced that May 4, 2026 will be observed as a dry day in all poll-bound states.

The move aims to maintain peace and ensure smooth counting of votes across states where elections have taken place.

Which States Will Be Affected?

The dry day rule will apply to the states and Union Territory where elections are being held:

• Tamil Nadu
• West Bengal
• Assam
• Kerala
• Puducherry

In these regions, the counting of votes will take place on May 4, and the dry day will be strictly enforced.

What Does 'Dry Day' Mean?

On a dry day, the sale, service, and distribution of alcohol are completely banned.
This includes:

• Liquor shops
• Bars and restaurants
• Hotels and clubs
• Any other licensed or unlicensed premises

Even high-end hotels and private clubs are not allowed to serve alcohol during this period.

Legal Basis Behind the Rule

The decision is based on provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Under Section 135C of the Act, alcohol sales are restricted during elections to prevent disturbances and ensure law and order. While this rule mainly applies before polling, the Election Commission also enforces it on counting day as a precaution.

Authorities have also been asked to strictly monitor and control illegal storage or sale of liquor during this time.

Why Is This Rule Important?

The Election Commission takes such steps to avoid any disruption during the sensitive counting process.

Counting day can be tense, with large gatherings, political activities, and celebrations.

Restricting alcohol helps:

• Maintain public order
• Prevent conflicts
• Ensure peaceful declaration of results

Election Timeline in These States

Different states voted on different dates:

• Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry voted on April 9
• Tamil Nadu and West Bengal (Phase I) voted on April 23
• West Bengal Phase II voting ended on April 29

All results will be announced together on May 4.

No Restrictions Outside Poll-Going States

The dry day rule applies only to the states where elections are being conducted.
In other parts of India, there will be no such restriction. However, residents and visitors in poll-bound states must follow the rules strictly on counting day.

Ensuring a Smooth Counting Process

With strict rules and security in place, authorities aim to ensure that the counting process is conducted smoothly and fairly.

The dry day order is part of a larger effort to maintain discipline and public safety during one of the most important stages of the election process.