Introduction:

A writ petition challenged a prohibitory order issued by the District Collector, directing the closure of liquor shops during Thrissur Pooram festival. The Court balanced public safety concerns with the economic impact on shop owners, modifying the order to minimize losses while ensuring public order.

Arguments:

Petitioners argued that the order lacked legal basis, citing Section 54 of the Abkari Act. They emphasized past incidents to challenge the necessity of the closure. The District Collector defended the order, citing the potential for unrest during the festival due to the large crowd.

Court’s Judgement:

The Court recognized the significance of Thrissur Pooram and the need to maintain public order during the festival. While acknowledging the economic loss to shop owners, it upheld the Collector’s authority to issue the order for public safety. However, considering the festival’s main day, the Court modified the timing of the closure to minimize losses.