Liquor licence deadline extension: Telangana HC adjourns hearing to October 25

The Telangana High Court heard a petition challenging the State’s decision to extend the deadline for submitting applications for retail liquor (A4) shop licences. The petitioner argued that the extension was arbitrary. The case was adjourned to Saturday

Hyderabad: Justice N Tukaramji of the Telangana High Court on Friday heard arguments in a writ petition challenging the State government’s decision to extend the last date for submission of applications for retail liquor (A4) shop licences in Telangana for 2025–27 licence period.

The petition, filed by D Venkateshwara Rao, questioned the action of the Prohibition and Excise Department, particularly the issuance of memo on October 18, 2025, by the Commissioner of Prohibition and Excise, extending the application deadline to October 23, 2025.

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The petitioner contended that the extension was arbitrary, illegal, and contrary to Articles 14 and 19 of the Constitution of India as well as the provisions of the Telangana Excise (Grant of License of Selling by Shop and Conditions of License) Rules, 2012.

The petitioner’s counsel argued that the memo was illegal and prayed that the applications submitted beyond October 18, 2025 (5 pm) should not be considered for the grant of A4 shop licences.

After hearing the submissions of the petitioner’s counsel, the court adjourned the matter to Saturday to enable the Additional Advocate General to advance arguments on behalf of the State.