Supreme Court Seeks Government Response on Mandatory Age-Checks at Liquor Shops

Last Updated on November 11, 2024 by Athi Venkatesh

The Supreme Court of India has issued notices to the Central government, all States, and Union Territories, seeking their responses on a public interest litigation (PIL) that calls for mandatory age-verification at liquor shops. The PIL, filed by non-profit Community Against Drunken Driving (CADD) through its founder, Prince Singhal, highlights the rising issue of underage drinking and its link to fatal drunk-driving accidents.

Representing CADD, Senior Advocate PB Suresh and Advocate-on-Record Vipin Nair argued before a bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan that the lack of strict age-verification mechanisms allows minors to easily purchase alcohol. They pointed out that, in countries with stricter age restrictions on alcohol sales, crime rates are generally lower.

The bench, however, noted the practical challenges of enforcing such measures, observing that minors could still obtain alcohol by sending an adult or domestic help to make the purchase. Justice Gavai remarked, “What can we do? They can send their servants to buy [alcohol].”

Despite these concerns, CADD’s counsel urged the Court to strengthen the current restrictions, arguing that a stricter policy could help curb the rising incidents of drunken-driving involving minors.

The plea underscores India’s lack of a clear legal framework for verifying a buyer’s age at bars, pubs, restaurants, and liquor shops. CADD seeks the Court’s direction for a robust age-verification system to reduce incidents of underage drinking and fatal DUI accidents.

The Supreme Court, taking cognizance of the issue, has requested the Central government and States to submit their responses, indicating that it may consider implementing stricter age-verification requirements to address the problem.