Why in the News?
The Supreme Court of India raised concerns over differing State excise laws and the absence of a uniform definition of liquor “bottle”, which allegedly enables deceptive alcohol packaging.
Key Observations by the Court
- Chief Justice Surya Kant observed that cheap alcohol is being marketed deceptively as:
- Fruit juice
- Flavoured beverages
- The Court noted misleading branding, such as“Green apple” vodka
Issue Raised in the Petition
- The petition was filed by: Community Against Drunken Driving
Main Concerns
- No uniform definition of “bottle” across States.
- Some State excise laws even include:
- Sacks
- Wrappers
- Cartons
Risks Highlighted
The petition argued that such packaging:
- Encourages underage drinking
- Promotes public consumption
- Increases smuggling risks
- Encourages drinking while travelling
- Creates environmental hazards
Public Health Concerns
- Attractive colourful packaging resembles fruit drinks.
- Health warnings are often not prominently displayed.
- Alcohol companies allegedly use deceptive marketing to expand consumption.
Court Action
- The Supreme Court issued notice to:
- Central Government
- All State Governmentsare
- seeking responses on the issue.
Constitutional and Governance Aspect
- Alcohol regulation falls under the State List in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.
- States have power to frame excise laws and regulate liquor sale and taxation.
[2024] Which one of the following statements is correct as per the Constitution of India?
- (a) Inter-State trade and commerce is a State subject under the State List.
- (b) Inter-State migration is a State subject under the State List.
- (c) Inter-State quarantine is a Union subject under the Union List.
- (d) Corporation tax is a State subject under the State List
