The Karnataka High Court has directed all breweries, bars, and restaurants serving alcohol to strictly verify the age of customers before allowing entry. The court said this can be done using Aadhaar or any valid ID proof.
It also stressed that age checks should not stop at the entrance. Staff must verify age again when someone who looks young or underage tries to order alcohol.
Management Will Be Held Responsible
The court made it clear that establishments cannot avoid responsibility if minors are found drinking on their premises. Whether alcohol is served directly or consumed secretly, the management will be held accountable for any lapses.
The court said protecting young people is not just a legal requirement but also a moral responsibility. Businesses dealing in alcohol are expected to be extra cautious and ensure minors are not allowed inside such premises at all.
Case That Led to the Observation
These remarks came while the court refused to cancel a criminal case against a partner of a brewery in Bengaluru.
The case relates to an incident where a 15-year-old boy allegedly consumed alcohol and later died after falling from a residential building. Alcohol was found in his body during the post-mortem.
Police had filed a case against the brewery’s owners and staff under the Juvenile Justice Act and the Karnataka Excise Act for allowing minors to consume alcohol.
Brewery’s Defense
The brewery management argued that they did not serve alcohol to the boys and claimed the minors had brought liquor with them and consumed it secretly. They also said the place is family-friendly, where children may accompany adults, but alcohol is not served to anyone below 18.
Court Calls for Detailed Investigation
The court noted that CCTV footage confirmed the minors had entered the brewery. It said key questions still need investigation—how underage boys were allowed entry, whether proper ID checks were done, and whether safety measures were followed.
The court emphasized that it is the responsibility of such establishments to ensure strict compliance with the law and prevent minors from accessing alcohol under any circumstances.
