Petitioners' Grievance on Implementation of 'Dry Days' in Pune District Addressed Following State's Clarification on Prohibition Dates
In a recent judgment dated September 11, 2026, the Bombay High Court (Division Bench) delivered a significant ruling concerning the observance of 'Dry Days' and the prohibition on retail liquor sales under Section 142(1) of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949. The case, Janardhan G Thorat and Others v. Collector of Pune and Others, addressed petitions challenging the imposition of 'Dry Days' on certain dates within Pune district and surrounding areas.
The petitioners, led by Janardhan G Thorat and the National Restaurant Association of India, contended against the enforcement of 'Dry Days' on specified dates, arguing that the imposition disrupted legitimate business operations and caused hardship. They referred to earlier decisions, including the Interim Order dated September 15, 2023, in the Washim District Liquor Bar Association case, which dealt with similar issues concerning liquor sale restrictions.
During the hearing, the State, represented by its counsel and officials including the District Collector and Police Commissioner, provided categorical clarification. It was stated that September 25, 2026, would be observed as a 'Dry Day' in the district, and the prohibition on retail liquor sales would remain effective on September 14, 2026, only until 4:00 pm. This revised schedule was intended to balance regulatory enforcement with the concerns raised by the petitioners.
The Court acknowledged the State's position and noted that the grievance of the petitioners had been effectively redressed through the State's clear instructions on the observance of 'Dry Days'. Consequently, the petitioners refrained from pursuing the matter further, leading the Court to dispose of the writ petitions.
This judgment reiterates the Bombay High Court's commitment to ensuring that regulatory measures under the Maharashtra Prohibition Act are implemented fairly and with due consideration to affected stakeholders. It also emphasizes the role of clear communication and cooperation between authorities and the public in enforcing liquor laws.
Bottom Line:
Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949 - Observance of 'Dry Day' and prohibition on retail liquor sale - Petitioner's grievance redressed in light of Respondent-State's statement about observing 'Dry Day' and prohibition timelines.
Statutory provision(s):
Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949 Section 142(1)
Janardhan G Thorat v. Collector Of Pune, (Bombay)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2976820
