Telangana High Court to Continue Hearing on Controversial Excise Policy

The Telangana High Court, in a significant development, has deferred its decision until Tuesday on a writ petition that contests the state government’s excise policy for the years 2025-27. The legal challenge was brought forward by petitioner Gaddam Mallaiah, who argues that the government has set an ‘exorbitant’ and ‘non-refundable’ application fee of ₹3 lakh for obtaining a liquor shop license. Mallaiah highlighted that this steep fee creates an insurmountable barrier for many individuals, effectively preventing them from even applying for a license. Furthermore, he pointed out the absence of any fee concessions for applicants from marginalized communities, specifically the Gouda community, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, thereby raising concerns about fairness and equal opportunity. The proceedings are expected to resume on Tuesday.