LONGUINHOS BAR & RESTAURANT Vs. STATE OF GOA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India can be disposed of in light of subsequent events. Having heard both sides, and considered the material on record as also the later events, we propose to pass an order in terms of prayer clauses 'c' and 'd' quashing an impugned notice dated 3rd April 2017 and directing the renewal of the Petitioners' liquor licenses.

(2.) The 1st Petitioner is a partnership firm. Its partners are citizens of India. They have been running a bar, restaurant and confectionery shop for a very long time in the city of Margao. The bar and restaurant is located in the heart of Margao city on Rue Abade Faria Road. The 1st Petitioner has a license from the 2nd Respondent, the Commissioner of Excise. This is numbered RS/FCL/327. The 2nd Petitioner is an unregistered association of about 16 liquor vendors in Margao city. A list of members is annexed.

(3.) The petition challenges the decision by the 3rd Respondent, the Inspector of Excise, not to renew the Petitioners' licenses, i.e. the 1st Petitioner's license mentioned above and the licenses of the members of the 2nd Respondent. The 3rd Respondent also directed the Petitioners not to carry on any business of liquor sales. Identical notices were issued to the 1st Petitioner and all members of the 2nd Petitioner.