permit raj

India's push for 'Jan Vishwas' faces a stark contradiction as authorities increasingly use stringent NDPS and BNS laws against licensed pharmaceutical stockists. Despite clear regulations under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, businesses dealing in common cough syrups are being prosecuted, blurring lines between regulation and criminality. This trend risks eroding trust and undermining the rule of law.

Districts bordering Bihar are leading Uttar Pradesh in excise revenue, with some exceeding targets by over 100%. This surge is attributed to tipplers from the 'dry' state crossing over or engaging in bulk purchases for smuggling. Even economically weaker eastern UP districts are outperforming affluent western counterparts, highlighting a significant cross-border demand.

Delhi Traffic Police has announced traffic restrictions around Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Saturday due to Honey Singh's concert. Congestion is expected from 2 pm to 10 pm on IP Marg, Vikas Marg, and Ring Road. Heavy vehicles will be diverted, and parking is restricted on Ring Road.

The states seem to have gotten their way and will continue with the old ‘permit raj’ system, undermining one the biggest gains of GST.

The Kochi corporation is planning to introduce a permit system for tanker lorries that supply drinking water in city to ensure the quality of drinking water supplied by private tankers."Nobody knows whether the drinking water supplied by private parties are actually treated or clean.

The Bombay High Court ruled that the right to dignity under Article 21 extends beyond death, allowing exhumation for religious rites. The court quashed administrative refusals, emphasizing that denying custody of mortal remains infringes upon constitutional rights, including freedom of religion. This decision reinforces dignified treatment of the deceased and mandates reasoned decisions from authorities.

Imagine being stopped at the entrance of a bar or pub and being asked to pay up Rs 5. "Whatever, for?" you will surely ask. To which the bouncer, or whoever it is that's manning this duty, will respond a touch matter of factly, "Drinking permit."

A fervent debate might be raging in the society over the high drinking age in Maharashtra, but for officials who are serving or have served in the state excise department there is little to discuss.