In State of UP v/s M/S Lalta Prasad Vaish case in October 2024, a nine-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court held which of the following decisions by 8 : 1 majority?

The correct answer is States have the power to regulate 'denatured spirit or industrial alcohol'..

Key Points

• In the State of UP v/s M/S Lalta Prasad Vaish case, the Supreme Court ruled by an 8:1 majority.
• The ruling affirmed that states have the authority to regulate 'denatured spirit or industrial alcohol'.
• The judgment clarifies the extent of state powers concerning the regulation of certain substances.
• This decision has significant implications for state control over industrial substances and their regulation.
• The ruling helps delineate the jurisdictional boundaries between state and central regulatory powers.

Additional Information

• Denatured Spirit
  • Denatured spirit is ethanol that has additives to make it poisonous, bad-tasting, foul-smelling, or nauseating to discourage recreational consumption.
  • It is used for industrial applications, cleaning, and as a solvent in laboratories.
  • The regulation of denatured spirit is crucial to ensure safety and prevent misuse.
• Article 370
  • Article 370 was a temporary provision granting special autonomy to the region of Jammu and Kashmir.
  • It was abrogated on August 5, 2019, by the Government of India.
  • The state of Jammu and Kashmir was reorganized into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
• Supreme Court of India
  • The Supreme Court is the highest judicial forum and final court of appeal in India.
  • It consists of the Chief Justice of India and a maximum of 34 judges.
  • It has extensive powers in terms of judicial review and constitutional interpretation.
• Regulatory Powers
  • Regulatory powers refer to the authority granted to government bodies to control and oversee specific activities.
  • These powers ensure that industries and practices operate within legal and safety standards.
  • Both state and central governments have specific domains where they exercise regulatory powers.