Pune cuts Ganesh festival alcohol-sales ban from 10 days to two

After a Bombay High Court rebuke, Pune excise authorities narrowed a planned 10-day prohibition to September 14 and 25, allowing wine shops, hotels and other alcohol sellers to trade for most of the Ganesh festival period.

— Source publishedSat, 12 Sept, 2026, 08:03 IST·First seen Sat, 12 Sept, 2026, 08:14 IST·Source NDTV Profit

What happened

Pune Excise Department · Bombay High Court rebuke prompted Pune authorities to cut a planned 10-day Ganesh festival alcohol prohibition to two days, restoring

Key facts

  • 10-day ban reduced to 2 days
  • September 14 until 4 pm
  • September 25
  • 3 police-station jurisdictions

What changed

Bombay High Court rebuke prompted Pune authorities to cut a planned 10-day Ganesh festival alcohol prohibition to two days, restoring trade for wine shops and hotels. The revised restriction applies citywide on September 14 and September 25.

What to watch

  • Official written order specifying covered outlets, hours and enforcement rules for September 14 and 25.
  • Daily liquor-sales data versus prior Ganesh festival periods, especially pre-ban stock-up activity.
  • Any appeal, fresh court petition or political response seeking broader restrictions.
  • Maharashtra excise guidance for upcoming religious festivals and municipal dry-day declarations.
  • Retailers and distributors increase replenishment for festival weekends and pre-ban purchasing days.