TN Govt Moves SC Challenging Madras HC’s Order To Shut Liquor Shops In State

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Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government moved the Supreme Court on Saturday, challenging the Madras High Court’s order to close in liquor stores in the state which had opened earlier this week following some relaxations by the Central government in Green zones during lockdown.

The Madras HC had on Friday issued an order to close all state-run liquor shops in Tamil Nadu and permitted only online sale of liquor.

Also read: Madras HC Order: Liquor Sale Via Online Or Door Delivery, Shops To Be Closed

Ever since alcohol shops opened after a gap of six weeks, people have been queuing up in large numbers all across the country, including Tamil Nadu. Consequently, social-distancing guidelines – as have been laid down the Central government to prevent spread of Covid-19 – are being violated.

Opening of liquor shops have brought in revenue to the state governments, but Opposition parties in Tamil Nadu had flayed the decision to open liquor shops.

There are over 5,300 sgtate-run liquor outlets in Tamil Nadu which contribute approximately Rs 30,000 crore of tax revenue to the state exchequer.

Also read: Rs 45 Crore Liquor Sale In Karnataka On First Day Of Reopening Of Alcohol Shops