New Delhi, April 20 -- The Election Commission of India directed authorities on Monday to announce "dry day" in the poll-bound states of Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. As per its notification, the states will observe a dry day starting 48 hours before polling on April 23 (Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Phase 1) and April 29 (West Bengal Phase 2).

The Election Commission said in a notice on Monday, "In view of the statutory provision as above, 'Dry day' shall be declared and notified under the relevant State/Union Territory laws as is appropriate during 48 hours, ending with the hours fixed for conclusion of poll with respect to polling day for an election in that polling area where General Election to Legislative Assembly is being held. This wi...