Shillong, Oct 7: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) Central Body has alleged that wine shops are operating on the national highway without the necessary approvals from the National Highway Authority of India ( NHAI) or the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, HITO general secretary Wanbun N Dkhar said that the reply to the RTI applications indicated illegal operation of wine shops.
The RTI application was limited to Ri Bhoi and the districts of Jaintia Hills.
“It is particularly troubling that these establishments misleadingly present themselves as “shop open,” a claim that is not only deceptive but also violates established legal standards. The 2016 Supreme Court ruling explicitly prohibits the sale of wine and liquor along national highways to address the issue of drunk driving, a regulation that must be enforced diligently by both the NHAI and state authorities.
In a letter addressed to the Commissioner of Excise, HITO said that the recent rise in drunk driving incidents, which have tragically claimed innocent lives, highlights the need for stronger laws to address illegal wine shops.
By implementing effective regulations, we can create a safer environment and prevent further tragedies. Furthermore, the state excise department has not revised any existing rules or regulations in light of the important ruling of the Supreme Court, it said.
“We seek your prompt clarification regarding the legal provisions that permit these wine shops to operate in clear violation of the 2016 Supreme Court order. Upholding the law and ensuring public safety on our highways is of the utmost importance”, HITO added.
