The government has approved the reopening of several shops and establishments to ease the lockdown in areas less affected by the spread of coronavirus pandemic. As per the orders issued by the government, shops and market will be reopened amid lockdown in areas which are less impacted by COVID-19.
According to government orders, the bars/liquor outlets will not be allowed to reopen or serve alcohol from today, April 25. The Home Minister has clarified that alcohol is a separate clause, rather than the provisions of the Shops and Establishment Act.
The government also stated that the order will not apply to malls or large markets, and the market will remain closed unless further notified.
During the first phase of the lockdown (March 25 to April 14), the two northeastern states of Assam and Meghalaya allowed the opening of wine and liquor stores. Then, when PM Modi announced an extension of the lockdown time from April 15, these stores were closed.
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