Delhi's New Liquor-Booking App Faces Technical Glitches and AAP's 24-Hour Ultimatum

The Delhi government recently introduced a mobile application allowing residents to book alcoholic beverages online and collect them from designated stores, but the rollout has been marred by technical issues and a sharp political backlash. According to reports from Wednesday, users testing the app encountered slow performance, frequent logouts, and error messages, raising doubts about its core feature of checking real-time stock availability.

App Features and Limitations

• Usage: Introduced across 208 DSIIDC liquor outlets in Delhi.
• Process: Users can browse brands, select quantities, choose a store, and pay digitally.
• Collection: Orders must be collected within 48 hours; home delivery is not supported.
• Eligibility: Buyers must be at least 25 years old, abiding by existing purchase limits of up to nine litres of spirits and 18 litres of beer.

Political Controversy

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly criticized the initiative, accusing the BJP-led government of prioritizing alcohol sales over essential public services. AAP Delhi unit chief Saurabh Bharadwaj issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding the app's withdrawal, threatening mass protests if the administration fails to comply. Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia also condemned the move, drawing parallels to past liquor policy controversies.

Officials noted that the online booking framework was initially approved during the previous AAP tenure to bring transparency to retail sales. Meanwhile, the political row highlights the enduring sensitivity surrounding liquor regulations in Delhi, as users await stable performance from the newly launched digital platform.