Nagaram wine shop case: Telangana HC expresses concern over proliferation of liquor outlets in residential areas
The Bench directed all respondents to file their counter-affidavits within two weeks
By - Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: Telangana High Court has expressed serious concern over the proliferation of liquor outlets across residential neighbourhoods in the state.
The court directed the Prohibition & Excise Department and Nagaram Municipality to file detailed counters on a petition challenging the establishment of a wine shop in Sri Satyanarayana Colony, Nagaram, Medchal–Malkajgiri district.
Notices to Excise officials and Licence holder
Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy issued notices to the Prohibition & Excise Commissioner, the Commissioner of Nagaram Municipality, and the licence holder, S. Pavan Reddy, over allegations that temporary structures were being illegally erected on open plots to set up the outlet.
The court stressed that liquor shops must ensure their displays are concealed from public view in residential zones.
Residents oppose location; earlier plea for relocation rejected
The petition, filed by P. Kaveri on behalf of the Sri Satyanarayana Colony Welfare Association, contended that establishing a liquor shop within a residential pocket would disturb public peace and compromise community safety.
Counsel for the petitioner, P. Venkat Reddy, informed the court that a representation seeking relocation of the outlet was earlier rejected by the Excise Commissioner, prompting residents to approach the High Court.
‘At this pace, state might need a new name’: Court
Expressing sharp concern over the rapid spread of liquor shops and restaurants in Telangana, Justice Vijaysen Reddy remarked that if the trend continued, the state might soon “need a new identity.”
While acknowledging the court’s limited role in policy matters, the judge urged authorities to exercise greater caution when permitting liquor outlets in densely populated residential clusters.
Court cites Nanakramguda case as warning
Recalling a previous case, the judge noted that the court had earlier intervened to shift a wine shop in Nanakramguda that was located directly opposite the entrance of a gated community housing nearly 1,000 families, an outlet that reportedly caused persistent disturbances to residents, including women and children.
Need for better signage and regulation
Justice Reddy also suggested that the state consider formulating a clear signage policy for wine shops, ensuring they are identifiable from a reasonable distance to avoid inadvertent inconvenience or safety concerns for residents.
Next hearing in two weeks
The Bench directed all respondents to file their counter-affidavits within two weeks. The matter has been posted for further hearing thereafter.
