Supreme Court Empowers States on Industrial Alcohol Regulation

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has granted states regulatory authority over industrial alcohol, overturning a previous decision that favored centralized control. The 8:1 majority verdict underscores state legislative powers over production and supply, highlighting nuances in constitutional entries regarding industry regulation.

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court ruled that states have the regulatory authority over the production, manufacture, and supply of industrial alcohol. This ruling overturns a 1997 decision by a seven-judge bench that had placed these powers under the purview of the central government.

The case, which had been escalated to a nine-judge bench in 2010, saw Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and seven other judges assert that the Centre lacks regulatory power in this matter. Justice B V Nagarathna was the lone dissenting voice among the nine judges.

The ruling clarifies the constitutional entries that dictate the legislative powers of states and the central government, particularly regarding industries deemed expedient for public interest by Parliament. The decision is a reaffirmation of state powers under the 7th Schedule of the Constitution.

(With inputs from agencies.)