Supreme Court seeks Centre’s response over lack of Uniform Definition for liquor bottles
The Supreme Court has asked the Central Government and state authorities to respond to a petition raising concerns about the packaging of alcohol in India.
The issue focuses on the absence of a common definition of what qualifies as a “liquor bottle” across different states and the increasing use of alcohol packaging such as tetra packs and sachets.
The petition was filed by NGO Community Against Drunken Driving, which argued that unclear rules under various state excise laws allow alcohol to be sold in packaging that can sometimes resemble juice or soft drink products.
During the hearing, concerns were raised that some alcohol packages use fruit images and colorful designs, which may confuse consumers and make the products appear similar to non-alcoholic beverages.
The petition also highlighted concerns related to public health and safety. It argued that such packaging may make alcohol easier to carry into public places and could increase risks involving underage consumption, public drinking, and misuse.
The plea further stated that unlike tobacco products, these packages often do not display prominent warning labels.
The Supreme Court has now issued notices to the Centre and state excise departments, seeking their responses.
The case may influence future discussions on standardizing alcohol packaging rules and creating a more uniform policy across the country.
