Political Ultimatums and Threats of Agitation

NEW DELHI — A mobile application facilitating online liquor bookings in the national capital has triggered an intense political confrontation. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding the complete scrapping of the service, threatening widespread mass agitation against the governing administration if the demand is ignored.

AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj leveled sharp criticisms against the ruling political establishment, threatening protests and demanding the immediate removal of a senior cabinet minister. Bharadwaj accused the leadership of misplaced priorities, claiming that public convenience regarding retail alcohol outlets was being prioritized over pressing healthcare and social welfare concerns.

Official Response: Project Approved in 2024

Rejecting the political allegations, officials from the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) clarified that the initiative is rooted in administrative policy decisions made during the previous government's tenure.

According to senior corporate officials, management sanctioned the development of the digital platform in December 2024. The stated objective at the time was to enhance commercial transparency, promote digital governance, and curb aggressive brand promotion at retail distribution points across the city.

A formal work order was issued on January 2, 2025—weeks before the current administration assumed office. Documentation reviewed by Daily News 365 indicates that the corporation awarded a contract valued at Rs 5 lakh, inclusive of GST, to GITS India Solutions Private Limited for software development and integration.

Operational Mechanics of the Platform

The digital application, officially designated for customers aged 25 and above, operates across 208 government-run retail outlets in Delhi. Key features of the system include:

* Inventory Transparency: Users can search for specific liquor brands and check real-time stock availability at nearby designated vends. * Digital Transactions: Secure digital payments can be executed directly through the platform prior to physical collection. * No Home Delivery: The platform strictly prohibits doorstep delivery. Customers are required to visit the selected retail outlet within a 48-hour window, presenting a secure QR code generated upon payment to collect their purchases.

Administrative authorities reiterated that the digital booking mechanism was primarily designed to minimize physical congestion outside liquor shops and streamline billing procedures, ensuring full compliance with age-verification protocols and regulatory standards.