SC clarifies on liquor ban order

The Supreme Court has clarified that its order on liquor sale on would cover establishments “along and proximity” of the highways, which provided connectivity between cities, towns and villages.

“The order does not prohibit licensed establishments within the municipal areas. This clarification shall government other muncipal areas as well,” a three-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice J S Khehar had said in an order passed on July 11.

The order released by the apex court on Wednesday said, “This clarification is to set at rest any ambiguity and to obviate repeated recourse before this court.”

The liquor vends falling within 500 metres of the national or state highways were closed in view of the apex court's order of December 15, last.

The court had on July 11 passed its clarification order on a petition filed by NGO 'Arrive Safe Society of Chandigarh'. It had dismissed the plea against Chandigarh Administration's decision to denotify state highways and declare it as district roads to circumvent liquor ban order.