Presidential reference considered to overcome highway liquor ban

Can a Presidential reference overcome the ban on sale of liquor on highways?

The Centre may make a presidential reference to the Supreme Court following an order that banned the sale of liquor within 500 metres of state and national highways. The order affected the liquor vends, hotels, pubs and restaurants on highways.

While the Centre is in favour of making a Presidential reference, it may also consider supporting a review petition which is likely to be filed by the state governments whose revenue has been affected as a result of this ban.

If a Presidential reference has to be made then the states would have to given in writing seeking the same under Article 143 of the Indian Constitution. The same would have to be made before the Supreme Court.

The states have complained that the ban has affected the economy. The ban also has a direct effect on tourism the states have contended. Some states have even begun denotifying highways to overcome this ban. The states have contended that the order should not be made applicable to bars and restaurants as it affects economy and business.

OneIndia News