By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 23: The High Court of Meghalaya has directed the state government to file an affidavit within a week in response to the prayers of the East Khasi Hills Wine Dealers’ Welfare Association, which has filed a writ petition challenging several government actions related to the liquor trade.
The petition specifically questions the introduction of the Integrated Excise Management System (IEMS) and the reduction of the maximum profit margin for retailers.
The Court on Tuesday heard RB Phookan, counsel for the petitioners. Advocate General A Kumar, along with Government Advocate AS Pandey, appeared for the State and accepted notice on behalf of all the respondents.
While a prayer was made for passing interim orders at this stage on the grounds that the State’s proposed actions would adversely affect retailers and curtail their profits, the Court instead directed the state to file its affidavit within a week.
The matter has been listed for further consideration of the interim prayer on October 9.
