Decision taken ahead of Christmas, Easter to ease logistical hurdles while ensuring strict regulatory oversight

New Delhi | Report: Arun Sharma

In a significant administrative relief for churches in the national capital, the Delhi government has permitted churches to store up to 4,000 litres of sacramental wine within church premises for religious purposes. The move is aimed at facilitating smooth conduct of major Christian festivals such as Christmas and Easter.
Officials from the Excise Department said that earlier churches were allowed to keep only a limited quantity of wine, often leading to supply constraints during large religious congregations. Under the revised arrangement, licensed churches will now be able to stock sacramental wine up to the prescribed limit, subject to compliance with specified conditions.
The government clarified that the decision has been taken keeping in mind religious freedom and practical requirements, while ensuring that there is no misuse of the relaxation. The permission strictly applies to religious rituals and sacraments, and commercial sale of wine remains completely prohibited. Authorities have also underlined that all storage, usage and record-keeping norms under excise laws must be followed rigorously. “Any violation of the rules will invite strict action,” an official said, stressing that monitoring mechanisms will remain in place.


Church organisations have welcomed the move, calling it a long-pending and practical step that will help avoid last-minute logistical challenges during major festivals. They said the decision would allow religious institutions to focus on spiritual observances without administrative disruptions.


The government’s decision is being seen as a balanced and pragmatic approach, ensuring respect for religious traditions while maintaining regulatory discipline—an effort to strike harmony between faith and administration.