Panaji, Mar 30 (TOI): In order to ensure free and fair elections, the government has curtailed the closure time of all liquor shops, bars and restaurants, pubs, food joints and shacks.

In view of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections and bypolls on April 23, they have been prohibited from selling alcohol after 11pm till April 20 .

“Premises having license for bar and restaurant are allowed to keep the restaurant open for serving food only and the bar counter shall be closed and no liquor shall be allowed to be served or sold during the above mentioned days and time,” the order stated, adding that a board announcing the restriction will have to displayed on these premises.

These establishments will also be prohibited from selling or serving liquor between 6pm on April 21 and 12am on April 23, the day Goa goes to polls.

Establishments serving or selling liquor in violation of the orders will be liable for cancellation of licence where the owner or offender will be liable for penal action under Section 188 of IPC, read with Section 30 of the Excise Duty Act, 1964, and other provisions of laws in force.

The orders, issued by both the district magistrates, collectors and district election officers, have been passed to ensure that political parties and candidates do not use liquor to lure voters.

Directions have already been issued to flying squads, officials of excise department, police and other authorised officers and officials to keep a strict vigil and also to track the movements of large consignment of IMFL and beer among others to deter chances of distribution of liquor by contesting candidates.

The model code of conduct has been in force from March 10.