Liquor shop owners withdraw case

SHILLONG: In an interesting development, the East Khasi Hills Wine Dealers Association, which had moved the High Court against the decision of the State Government prohibiting issuing of licences to wine stores in areas within 200 metres from places of worship, educational institutions and hospitals, has withdrawn the case. Though the reason behind the withdrawal of the petition not known, but it is assumed said that the case was withdrawn after the members of association were told that it is the Government which can make the required amendment to its order. It is said that the wine dealers would urge the State Government to bring some modifications in its order . Following a plea from the petitioners — East Khasi Hills Wine Dealers Association, Ri Bhoi Wine Dealers’ Association and an individual identified as Hamsia Pariat, the Meghalaya High Court on Monday permitted all to withdraw their petitions. Meanwhile, officials from the Excise department said that the concerned parties need to formally approach the Government on their demands. Sources also said that the matter will again have to go to Cabinet and it is the wisdom of the Cabinet to take a call on the matter