Karnataka High Court Questions Pub Entry for Minor While Granting Interim Stay to Brewery Partner

The Karnataka High Court granted an interim stay on criminal proceedings against a brewery partner accused in a case linked to the suicide of a 15-year-old boy in Bengaluru.

The teenager had visited a pub with friends after a school farewell and allegedly consumed alcohol before later dying by suicide. The pub’s owner and staff were booked under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, and the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965. 

While granting temporary relief, the Court questioned how a minor was allowed to enter and consume alcohol at such establishments.

It also stressed the need for strict age verification at pubs and suggested mandatory ID checks to prevent underage drinking.

[V Chittibabu v. State of Karnataka & Anr.]