Liquor shops on highways banned by Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has banned liquor shops on national as well as state highways in the country, as a measure to minimize cases of drink and drive. The court has directed that such shops should be at least 500 meters away from the highways. Licenses of liquor shops that are located on the highways will not be renewed from March 31, 2017.

The decision comes after the apex court went through a number of petitions that requested change in excise laws to ensure that liquor is not sold near highways. The three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice T. S. Thakur, acknowledged the fact that presence of liquor shops on highways can distract commuters, and can increase cases of driving under influence.

The court has also ordered that all banners and signage related to liquor sales be removed from highways. The Chief Secretary and police chiefs of states have been made responsible to ensure implementation of the orders.

Source: NDTV