In a move with significant implications for the hospitality and retail sectors, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has announced stricter regulations for liquor stores operating within housing societies. Under the new directive, liquor stores in commercial spaces of housing societies must now obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the respective society before commencing operations. This measure aims to address law and order concerns while ensuring community involvement in licensing decisions.
The announcement comes as a response to concerns raised by legislators Mahesh Landge, Adv Rahul Kul, and former minister Sudhir Mungantiwar about the negative impact of liquor stores in residential areas. Pawar highlighted that the state government is committed to enforcing prohibition laws and maintaining peace, with liquor licenses already restricted in proximity to schools and colleges.
For the hospitality industry, this regulation introduces additional hurdles for securing liquor licenses in mixed-use developments or community-centric properties. Restaurants, bars, and retail outlets that depend on liquor sales for revenue may face delays or increased costs due to this new approval process.
The government also plans to tighten rules for shutting down liquor shops. Pawar accepted a proposal to increase the threshold for public opposition to liquor stores from 50% of registered voters to 75% of actual votes cast in a municipal ward, ensuring broader consensus in such decisions.
Hospitality businesses operating in Maharashtra must stay informed of these regulatory changes, as they may impact investment plans, operational processes, and community relations. Proactive engagement with local stakeholders and adherence to these guidelines will be critical for smooth operations.
