SC refuses to modify banning of liquor shops off national highways

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to modify its order on banning liquor shops off national highways.

The apex court had on December 15 directed to remove all liquor shops within 500 meters range near the national and state highways across the country.

The ban will be effective from April 1 this year.

The apex court had also observed that all existing licenses of liquor shops on highways will not be renewed after March 31, 2017.

The top court also directed to remove liquor billboardsappearing on highways.

The apex court was hearing petitions challenging the verdict of various high courts which held that liquor shops must be located at some distance from state highways so that they are neither visible nor accessible to commuters.

The orders have to be implemented by chief secretaries and police chiefs in each state.