Republic Day 2025: Why alcohol is banned on national holidays?

National holidays in India are considered of great importance as they commemorate the significant events that led to the formation of this nation and the identity and values that define it. Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti are not only celebration days but also days of solemn reflection and collective pride. An important tradition associated with these holidays is declaring a "dry day," that is, banning the sale of alcohol. Why would this be restricted? These are just a few aspects of the history, reasoning, and impact of the prohibition of alcohol on national holidays.

History of dry days
The term "dry days" had been a vision and legacy, initially proposed by the Father of the Nation himself, Mahatma Gandhi, an ardent exponent of prohibition.

He opined that liquor is considered an evil for social development, further entrenching immoral activities in individuals and subsequently inducing poverty at grassroots levels of the marginalized class of people. As an indispensable component in the ideal picture he painted through his articles and addresses to the world, Gandhi argued in favour of temperance. When India gained independence, several states adopted Gandhi’s ideas on prohibition, and dry days became a way to honour his legacy. Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2, is a prominent dry day, reflecting his values of simplicity and non-violence. Over time, other significant national holidays like Republic Day and Independence Day were added to the list, symbolizing respect for the country's democratic and sovereign ethos.

Reasons to ban on national holidaysPaying respect to national values National holidays are a celebration of the ideals of freedom, democracy, and unity. Prohibition of the selling of alcohol during these holidays reminds society that such days are not occasions to indulge but rather to seek patriotism and reflection.

Promoting responsible conduct
Such events, including flag hoisting, parades, and public ceremonies, are part of these days. The prohibition of alcohol ensures that such events occur with dignity and are not interfered with by intoxication or rowdy behaviour.

Improving public safety
It is frequently the case that alcohol consumption becomes a cause of more accidents, public nuisances, and clashes. Maintaining public order will be a help by having a dry day for the large congregation and celebrations would take place.

Cultural as well as moral considerations
For most Indians, abstinence from alcohol on such days is a way of showing respect for their culture and moral fibre. It is consistent with the sentiment of paying homage to the sacrifices of freedom fighters and national pride

Dry days in the wider perspective
Indeed, the aim of dry days is commended but people's perception of them being beneficial is not one-sided. Critics believe that such bans drive up the trade of black market alcohol sales. Other people perceive them as being more of a piece of paper than an action toward abstinence. However, dry days exist still as a token reminder of national collective worth.


Other days with alcohol prohibition
During election times and festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Ganesh Chaturthi, dry days have been in place; state-specific dry days are also notified. In this way, the possibility of public disorder during such occasions gets reduced.

The ban on selling alcohol on national holidays is something very deeply set in the fabric of India's history and culture. It reflects a nation's regard for its founding principles and honours sacrifices that paved the way to freedom. Though at times it sets off debate, it remains one of those traditions that reinforce the elements of discipline, dignity, and respectability in national identity.

(Images courtesy: Canva)
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