Jain Community Moves Bombay High Court Against Wine Shop License Near 1833 Anantnathji Derasar Temple
Temple trust says liquor outlet violates distance rules and hurts religious sentiments
Collector upheld license despite objections; community seeks cancellation in court
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: November 21, 2025:
The Bombay High Court has been approached by the Jain community in Mumbai over a controversial wine shop license granted near the historic Shree Anantnathji Maharaj Derasar temple, established in 1833. The dispute canters on whether the liquor outlet, Anand Wines, located in Masjid Bunder, violates mandatory distance norms and threatens the sanctity of one of the city’s oldest Jain temples.
Background of the Case
The Shree Anantnathji Derasar temple is the second-oldest Jain temple in Mumbai, with deep cultural and spiritual significance. For nearly two centuries, it has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for the Jain community.
In recent years, the licensing of Anand Wines, a liquor shop operating close to the temple, has sparked protests. The community argues that the shop’s presence near the temple is not only a violation of excise rules but also an affront to their religious sentiments.
Collector’s Order
Earlier this year, the Mumbai city collector upheld the legality of Anand Wines’ license, dismissing objections raised by the temple trust. The collector’s order stated that the shop complied with licensing norms. However, the Jain community insists that the outlet is located within prohibited distance limits from a place of worship, which should automatically disqualify it from operating.
Petition in Bombay High Court
In response, the temple trust and members of the Jain community filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court. The petition challenges the collector’s order and seeks cancellation of the wine shop’s license.
The petition argues that:
- The shop violates mandatory distance rules under excise regulations.
- The presence of a liquor outlet near a temple hurts religious sentiments and disturbs the sanctity of the area.
- The collector failed to consider the historic importance of the temple while passing the order.
Community’s Concerns
The Jain community has long opposed the sale of alcohol near places of worship. For them, the issue is not just legal but deeply spiritual. They believe that allowing a wine shop near the temple undermines the values of non-violence, purity, and discipline central to Jainism.
Community leaders have emphasized that the temple is not just a religious site but also a heritage landmark. They argue that the government should protect such sites from commercial activities that conflict with their sanctity.
Legal Arguments
The petitioners’ lawyers have pointed out that excise rules clearly prohibit liquor shops within a certain distance from schools, hospitals, and places of worship. They argue that the collector’s order ignored these rules and relied on technicalities rather than the spirit of the law.
On the other hand, Anand Wines maintains that it has operated legally for years and that its license was renewed in compliance with all regulations. The shop’s representatives argue that they cannot be penalized for following due process.
Wider Implications
The case has broader implications for how heritage temples and religious sites are protected in urban areas. Mumbai, like many Indian cities, faces challenges in balancing commercial growth with cultural preservation.
If the High Court rules in favour of the Jain community, it could set a precedent for stricter enforcement of excise rules near religious sites. If the wine shop’s license is upheld, it may raise questions about the adequacy of current regulations in safeguarding religious sentiments.
Public Reaction
The dispute has drawn attention from across Mumbai. Many members of the Jain community have expressed disappointment with the collector’s decision and welcomed the move to approach the High Court.
Social media discussions reflect a mix of opinions. While some argue that religious sentiments must be respected, others believe that businesses operating legally should not be penalized.
Heritage and Sentiment
The 1833 Anantnathji Derasar temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of Mumbai’s Jain heritage. The temple trust has highlighted its role in preserving traditions and serving as a spiritual hub for generations.
For devotees, the presence of a liquor shop nearby is seen as disrespectful. They argue that the government must prioritize heritage preservation over commercial interests.
What Lies Ahead
The Bombay High Court is expected to hear arguments from both sides in the coming weeks. The key issues will be:
- Whether Anand Wines violates excise distance norms.
- Whether religious sentiments and heritage concerns should outweigh licensing technicalities.
- Whether the collector’s order was legally sound.
The outcome will determine not only the fate of Anand Wines but also the future of similar disputes across India.
Conclusion
The Jain community’s petition against the wine shop license near the 1833 Anantnathji Derasar temple highlights the tension between religious sentiments and commercial licensing. While the collector upheld the shop’s legality, the community insists that the outlet violates excise rules and undermines the sanctity of a historic temple.
As the Bombay High Court deliberates, the case underscores the need for clearer policies to protect heritage and religious sites in rapidly urbanizing cities. The verdict will be closely watched, not just by the Jain community but by all who value the balance between tradition and modernity.
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