Raipur, Chhattisgarh: The Chhattisgarh government has announced changes to the state’s excise policy, reducing the number of annual dry days from seven to three and allowing liquor shops to remain open during festivals like Holi and Muharram. The decision has sparked criticism from opposition parties and social organizations. Under the previous policy, liquor shops were closed on major religious and national occasions, and the entire state observed a dry day. The government’s move to open shops during these occasions marks a significant departure from tradition, prompting debates about morality, social values, and revenue generation. Government’s Rationale Officials argue that the policy aims to balance regulation with challenges of enforcement and public demand. Liquor shops will...