Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court ruled that moral objections from church leaders and local committees cannot force a licensed liquor store to close. Justice H.S. Thangkhiew ordered authorities to allow a retail Indian Made Foreign Liquor outlet to operate in the West Garo Hills district.
The store owner holds a valid license and followed all state procedures. She moved her shop from Jengjal market to Danakgre after getting a no-objection certificate from the local Nokma. The Excise Department approved the shift in January 2025. Despite this, the Superintendent of Excise ordered her to shut down following pressure from local elders.
Official inquiries confirmed the shop violates no laws. It sits more than 200 metres from any church, school, or hospital. The court noted that another bar operates just 105 metres away. Justice Thangkhiew held that the objections were based "on moral grounds, rather than legal or other substantial grounds" that would justify revoking a licence.
The court also noted that illegal liquor trade is widespread in the area. A legal shop could help stop this black market. While the court stated there is no fundamental right to trade in liquor, it confirmed that a government-issued license creates a legal right. This right demands due process. Officials must allow the shop to open now.
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