Pune Alcohol Ban Cut to 2 Days After HC Rebuke

The Bombay High Court on Friday criticized the Pune administration for imposing a 10-day alcohol ban during the Ganesh festival.

The court asked why Pune was singled out while other regions, including Mumbai, were not subject to the same restrictions.

A bench of Chief Justice M C Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna stated that the court would intervene if the prohibition order was not withdrawn, as it stigmatized Pune and its residents.

The Pune administration subsequently limited the prohibition to only two days, September 14 and September 25, which is already a dry day.

The court accepted the revised statement and instructed the Collector to issue a fresh order.

Hotel and wine shop owners' associations had challenged the Pune Collector's order in the High Court, prompting the court to question the rationale behind the ban.

The court noted that a blanket order prohibiting licensed establishments from operating for 10 days was unjustified and would cause revenue loss to the state excise department.

The judges also joked that habitual drinkers would experience medical issues if they were unable to drink for 10 days.

The court's decision was made to maintain a balance between law and order and the rights of licensed businesses.

The Ganesh festival is a significant event in Pune, and the court's ruling will likely impact the city's celebrations.

The festival, which begins on September 14, is expected to attract large crowds, and the limited alcohol ban is intended to minimize disruptions.

The court's decision highlights the importance of balancing public order with the rights of businesses and individuals.

In this case, the court intervened to prevent an arbitrary crackdown on Pune's residents and businesses.

The outcome of the case will likely be closely watched by other cities and states in India, where similar restrictions may be imposed in the future.

The Bombay High Court's ruling demonstrates its commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and justice in its decisions.