Why Gujarat is Called Dry State ? Due to Alcohol Restrictions / Liquor Prohibition

Gujarat is a dry state in India among four other states. Gujarat is following the law of dry state as per which it prohibits the manufacture, sale and consumption of alcohol in Gujarat state. The Bombay Prohibition Act was the law that enforced this ban in the year 1949, shortly after the death of the “Father of the Nation”, Mahatma Gandhi.

The fact that it came into force during the period of national sorrow-death of Mahatma Gandhi, and is so intricately associated with the Mahatma is the reason why it continues to be such a sensitive issue. The legislation has been in force since 1 May 1960 when Bombay State dissolved into Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Mahatma Gandhi was born in Porbandar Gujarat. He has contributed his complete life for India’s independence. Mahatma Gandhi was strictly following all rules and he was killed dead by Nathuram Godse on 30 January, 1948. After the death of Mahatma Gandhi, giving respect to him, Gujarat was declared under the law of dry state.

Is Gujarat really a dry state? :

The Union Territory of India district Diu and Daman are alcohol free but outside that city area, liquor/ wine/any alcohol is prohibited in Gujarat. The smuggling of alcohol exists in Gujarat and the bootleggers are very active and the alcohol seekers can find the drinks easily everywhere. On paper, Gujarat is a complete dry state but on ground, it is different story and one can find the liquor very easily. The Gujarat police seize liquor worth Rs 100 Crore every year.

Gujarat is the only Indian state with a death penalty for makers and sellers of home-made liquor where fatalities are caused, but the truth is prohibition has done nothing more than drive liquor underground. Apart from Gujarat, Nagaland, Manipur, Lakshadweep and Kerala are also prohibited for alcohol.