Kerala High Court grants more time for bar licence

Kochi: Kerala High Court on Friday granted five more days time to the state government to implement its direction for grant of bar licence to 10 hotels.

Justice A V Ramakrishna Pilla gave the direction on a petition by the government seeking extension of time up to January 10.

The petition was filed as the earlier deadline given by the court for implementing its order expired on Thursday.

The State Excise Commissioner and Tax Secretary filed an affidavit to the effect that all steps taken to comply with the matter and files were placed before the cabinet for approval.

The cabinet meeting held on December 18 did not consider this, it was stated.

The court was of the view that only after notification of Abkari (excise) policy, order can be complied with. The original petition was filed by the Bar owners seeking bar licence