PAUL KURIAKOSE vs THE EXCISE INSPECTOR

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the appellant under Section 55(a) of the Abkari Act for possession of 450 litres of spirit with 80.70% Ethyl Alcohol, confirming the High Court's findings on the evidence presented. The Court found no grounds to interfere with the conviction but modified the sentence from three years to two years of rigorous imprisonment, while maintaining the fine of Rs.1 lac. The decision reflects the consideration of the appellant's lack of criminal antecedents and the prolonged duration of the trial.