The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued a notice to the State government following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) highlighting illegal liquor sales at prices exceeding the Maximum Retail Price (MRP). This action was taken by a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Vinay Saraf during a recent hearing.
The PIL, filed by Advocate Deepanshu Sahu, raised serious concerns about liquor vendors in the state selling alcohol above the legally permitted price. The petitioner claimed that despite several complaints and documented instances, no meaningful enforcement had been carried out by the Excise Department.
The petitioner specifically mentioned a case dated 11.04.2024, where a raid was conducted (referred to in Annexure P/5), and although overpricing was found, no fine or penalty was imposed, and the vendor was let off without consequences.
"Despite infraction being found, no action apparently was taken and the person was let off without a fine or penalty," the petitioner's counsel submitted.
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The Court took cognizance of these allegations and directed the State to submit an affidavit. The affidavit must include:
- The number of complaints received and/or raids conducted on liquor shops from 01.04.2025 to 15.06.2025 regarding sales beyond MRP.
- The actions taken, if any, in cases where violations were found.
- The specific outcome in the case referred to in Annexure P/5.
“Respondents are directed to file an Affidavit indicating (i) number of complaints received and/or raids conducted with regard to allegation of sale beyond the maximum retail price from 01.04.2025 till 15.06.2025, (ii) in case any infraction was found, what action was taken and (iii) the respondents shall also state as to what final action was taken in the case referred to by the petitioner as per Annexure P/5.”
— MP High Court Bench
The PIL emphasized that the Excise Department holds a statutory responsibility under the Madhya Pradesh Excise Act, 1915 to regulate liquor sales and ensure vendors do not exceed the marked price. Despite submitting complaints to both the District Excise Officer and the Excise Commissioner, the petitioner alleged no meaningful action had been taken, even in clear cases of violation.
The petitioner requested the High Court to:
- Direct the authorities to take prompt action against all liquor shops violating the MRP norms.
- Issue a writ of mandamus ordering the cancellation of licenses of the defaulting vendors.
- Ensure penalties are levied in accordance with the provisions of the Excise Act.
The Court granted four weeks' time for the State to file its reply and has scheduled the next hearing after four weeks.
Case Title: Adv Deepanshu Sahu Vs The State Of Madhya Pradesh And Others, WP No. 18037 Of 2025
