V.K. Ashokan vs Asstt. Excise Commnr. & Ors

The Supreme Court interpreted the Kerala Abkari Act and the Kerala Abkari Shops (Disposal in Auction) Rules, 1974, addressing the legality of license cancellations under Rule 6. The Court held that the State's policy decisions regarding the grant of privileges must adhere to the statutory framework and cannot be arbitrary. The appeals were allowed, and the High Court's judgment was set aside, reinstating the licenses of the appellants.