Imran Khan files PIL against age limit for consuming liquor

Mumbai: Bollywood actor Imran Khan today filed a PIL in the Bombay High Court challenging Maharashtra government’s decision raising the legal age limit for consuming alcohol from 21 to 25 years.

“By this PIL I am not promoting drinking but fighting for the constitutional right of the youth in India. When a 21-year-old is allowed to marry, vote and do several other things, then he or she should also be allowed to indulge in any legal activity including consumption of liquor,” Imran told reporters after filing the Public Interest Litigation.

The Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na and Delhi Belly star said the state government’s action infringed on the fundamental rights of a citizen living in a democratic country.

“If the government has not banned sale of liquor then anyone above the age of 21 should have the choice of consuming it. A major can decide for himself what is right and wrong,” the actor, clad in a light blue striped shirt, flanked by his lawyer Ameet Naik and brother-in-law Vedant Malik, said.

The 28-year-old actor, nephew of superstar Aamir Khan, lamented that the youth were always considered irresponsible in the country.

“There are several issues we are facing in our country. But this issue (alcohol age limit) is something I personally feel about. Even I have consumed alcohol when I was younger, but responsibly,” Imran said.

The actor’s lawyer Naik said the PIL would come up for hearing in due course.

PTI