Delhi HC asks govt to respond to plea challenging liquor shop opening near religious place

Delhi High Court on Tuesday sought a response from Delhi government on a petition contesting opening of an alcohol outlet near religious sites, a hospital, and a school in Jangpura neighbourhood.

Justice Yashwant Varma has directed Delhi government and Commissioner (Excise, Entertainment and Luxury Tax) to issue directions on petition, and has scheduled a hearing for December 3. 

Delhi HC directs govt to respond to plea challenging opening of liquor shop in residential area

petitioners, who are inhabitants of Jangpura-A, claimed that intended opening of a wine shop in ir neighbourhood can pose harm to people living in area and can have a wrong impact on children. petitioner, meanwhile, also tified court that liquor store is currently t fully operational.

"Though, unlike Fundamental Rights, Article 47 falls under Part IV, that is, Directive Principles of State Policy," petitioners said, "its significance and relevance are of utmost importance," adding that proposal to open a wine or beer shop at that location violates relevant laws and rules, including Delhi Excise Policy, 2021-22.

wine or beer shop could be opened within 100 m of any significant educational institutions, religious locations, or hospitals with fifty beds or more, according to clause 4.1.6 of Delhi Excise Policy for year 2021-22 and Rule 51(1) of Delhi Excise Rules, 2010, petition stated.

" proposal of opening of a wine or beer shop at above said place is taken without adhering to aforesaid provisions of rules as re are t only more than one religious places like temple, Gurudrawa but also school and hospital. Arya Samaj Mandir with five schools is situated at 30 metres, Kanthi Mata Mandir is at distance of 60 metres, Mai Da Gurudwara is at distance of 90 metres, MCD hospital is at distance of 60 metres," read petition.

complainants have sought an order or directive from authorities to close and relocate prospective wine or beer store, as well as a reimbursement of petitioner's expenses of bringing this petition.

With ANI Inputs
Im: Rep Im