Bengaluru May See Dry Thursday as Liquor Merchants Announce Shutdown
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Bengaluru Liquor Merchants Call Shutdown Over Excise Policies; City May Go Dry Thursday
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News18•04-03-2026, 12:21
Bengaluru Liquor Merchants Call Shutdown Over Excise Policies; City May Go Dry Thursday
•Bengaluru liquor merchants plan a shutdown on Thursday, March 5, 2026, making it an unofficial dry day.
•The protest, organized by the Federation of Wine Merchants’ Association, targets state excise policies and the auction of 579 inactive liquor licenses.
•Merchants argue the auction is unfair, as licenses belong to owners who faced technical hurdles, and will cause massive financial losses.
•Key demands include stopping the auction, simplifying license renewal, reducing annual fees, and addressing corruption in the Excise Department.
•Many private bars, restaurants, and retail shops are expected to remain closed; check local establishments before visiting.