Mon Nov 11 10:31:43 UTC 2024: ## Supreme Court to Examine Plea for Mandatory Age Checks at Liquor Vends
**New Delhi, November 11, 2024:** The Supreme Court of India has agreed to examine a plea seeking mandatory biometric age checks at all liquor outlets, including bars, pubs, and other establishments serving alcohol. This move comes in response to growing public concern over fatal road accidents caused by underage drunk drivers.
The petition, filed by the NGO Community Against Drunken Driving, highlights the alarming rise in alcohol consumption, particularly among minors. Citing a recent accident in Mumbai where a 17-year-old driving a Porsche killed two people, the NGO advocates for stricter laws and effective mechanisms to prevent underage drinking.
The petition emphasizes the correlation between underage drinking and criminal behaviour, citing studies showing a significant increase in the risk of violent offenses like robbery, sexual assault, and homicide among young drinkers. It also highlights the inconsistencies in legal drinking age across different states in India, with Goa permitting alcohol consumption at 18 while Delhi sets the limit at 25.
The Supreme Court will hear the Union Government’s response on the petition, which seeks to establish a standardized protocol for age verification at liquor sales points using biometric identification. The court’s decision on this matter could have significant implications for public safety and the fight against underage drinking in India.
First Piper 