Guwahati, 8 April (HS): A big decision has been taken regarding the time of sale and serving of liquor in Guwahati city. The Assam Excise Department has issued new instructions and has now allowed liquor shops and bar-restaurants to remain open till later than the stipulated time.

According to the new order, IMFL off shops (from where liquor is bought and taken away) will now be able to remain open till 11 pm. Earlier these shops had to be closed before this.

At the same time, IMFL on premises i.e. places serving liquor like bars, clubs and restaurants will now be able to serve liquor till 12:30 pm. Earlier this time limit was till 12 midnight.

This revised time table has come into effect with immediate effect, but it will be limited to Guwahati city area only. This information has been given through departmental notification.

This decision has come at a time when there were reports on April 5 that the government may extend the time to give relief to the hotel and bar industry and in view of the increasing demand.

However, there was a controversy in the meantime when Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, while talking to the media in Dibrugarh, said that liquor shops across the state will remain open till 2 am. A debate started on law and order on this statement.

Later the Chief Minister clarified through social media that opening till 2 am does not apply to the whole of Assam. He said that the time extension has been done only in Guwahati and through departmental notification.

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash