The Supreme Court has brought a big relief to thousands of liquor vends and hospitality industry that the ban on sale of alcohol within 500 meters of state and national highways does not apply within city limits.
With this order, the liquor vends in the city limits but operate within 500 meters of a highway can apply for a license renewal to open shutters.
The apex court said in the order, “The purpose of the directions contained in the order dated 15 December 2016 is to deal with the sale of liquor along and in proximity of highways properly understood, which provide connectivity between cities, towns and villages. The order does not prohibit licensed establishments within municipal areas. This clarification shall govern other municipal areas as well. We have considered it appropriate to issue this clarification to set at rest any ambiguity.”
While the top court had last month allowed state authorities to de-notify highways passing through the municipal limits, many outlets were still waiting for de-notification orders.
With this order, the industry expects 85% of the bars and restaurants to start business. The ban had severely impacted the spirits and beer industry in India too. While the spirits industry was down by about 4 per cent, beer industry was down by 2 per cent.