Delhi High Court Upholds Rejection of Pernod Ricard Liquor Licence Appeal

The Delhi High Court has affirmed the Delhi government's decision to reject Pernod Ricard's bid for an L1 licence, needed for wholesale liquor distribution. The decision arises amid unresolved money laundering charges against the company, despite its assertion of a clean operational history.

Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav dismissed Pernod Ricard's challenge to the denial. The liquor giant, embroiled in a money laundering case tied to a 2021 excise policy investigation, argued that lacking a conviction should not equate to possessing a "criminal background," as per the Delhi Excise Act. The firm maintains that it is not a "fly-by-night operator" with over three decades of unblemished operations.

Pernod Ricard, a significant player globally with a portfolio of over 200 brands like Chivas Regal and Absolut, claimed its legal situation should not impede its licensing unless legally deemed guilty. The company highlighted that the trial court previously discharged those accused in related offences, rendering further prosecution implausible.

(With inputs from agencies.)