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The plea argues that such packaging makes liquor more accessible (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued notices to the Centre and other concerned authorities on a petition seeking a nationwide ban on the sale of alcohol in low-cost packaging formats such as tetra packs and sachets.
The plea argues that such packaging makes liquor more accessible, especially among economically weaker sections and younger consumers.
The matter was heard by a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, which sought responses from the Union government and other authorities on the issue.
BREAKING: Supreme Court issues notice to Centre on a plea seeking a ban on alcohol sales in tetra packs and sachets. #SupremeCourt #AlcoholBan #LiquorPolicy #ExcisePolicy #AlcoholSales pic.twitter.com/iXCDj5KidQ
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The petitioner contended that liquor sold in sachets and tetra packs is cheaper, easier to transport and more widely available, potentially increasing alcohol consumption and related social problems.
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According to the plea, compact and inexpensive packaging formats make alcohol more accessible in public spaces and near educational institutions. The petitioner also argued that these products contribute to rising cases of alcohol abuse and crime.
The fresh hearing comes shortly after the apex court refused to entertain another public interest litigation challenging the Uttar Pradesh government’s new excise policy. That petition had specifically opposed the sale of country liquor in tetra packs.
At the time, the court advised the petitioner to first approach the concerned state authorities instead of directly seeking intervention from the Supreme Court.
The Uttar Pradesh government had defended its policy changes by stating that shifting country liquor sales from glass bottles to tetra packs was aimed at improving safety standards and preventing adulteration. The state also maintained that the new packaging system would help streamline distribution and reduce illegal refilling practices.
Under the revised excise policy, Uttar Pradesh introduced several reforms, including an e-lottery system for the allocation of liquor and bhang shops. The state government claimed these measures were designed to increase transparency and improve regulation in the liquor trade.
However, critics of the policy continue to express concerns over the social impact of making liquor more easily available through smaller and portable packaging formats.
The Supreme Court is expected to hear the matter again after responses are filed by the Centre and other authorities.
