SHIV KUMAR BHAGAT vs STATE OF BIHAR .

The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision to quash the Collector's recommendation for an additional wholesale liquor licence under the Bihar Excise Act, 1915, specifically citing Rule 45 of the Bihar and Orissa Excise Rules. The Court established that the Collector's recommendation was not in accordance with the prescribed rules, thus rendering it invalid. The outcome affirmed the High Court's ruling, maintaining that proper adherence to statutory provisions is essential in licensing matters.