Delhi Liquor Shops To Remain Closed After 8 PM Over Weekend Amid Protest

Liquor shops across Delhi have been directed to close by 8 pm until the weekend ends due to the prevailing law and order situation linked to ongoing student protests in the national capital. The decision was taken following inputs from the Delhi Police regarding the demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, where students and youth activists have been gathering over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations.

The early closure order came into effect after several liquor outlets shut earlier than their usual operating hours on Thursday, leaving many customers surprised. Under normal circumstances, liquor shops in Delhi remain open until 10 pm. A senior Delhi government official said the temporary restriction was implemented as a precautionary measure based on security assessments and police recommendations.

The protests in Central Delhi have intensified in recent days, with demonstrators raising concerns over alleged issues surrounding the NEET examination process. Students gathered under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) have been demanding greater accountability and calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over allegations of examination paper leaks.

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Tensions increased after a Parliament March organized by the CJP on July 20 turned violent, resulting in injuries to several protesters and some police personnel. Authorities have since been closely monitoring the situation around major protest locations, including Jantar Mantar, to maintain public order and prevent further disturbances.

Officials said the temporary adjustment in liquor shop timings is part of broader precautionary steps being taken during the period of heightened demonstrations. The restriction will remain in place through the weekend, after which authorities are expected to review the situation and decide whether normal operating hours can resume. Meanwhile, protests over examination-related concerns continue to draw attention from students, political groups, and government authorities.

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