Drinking in public may invite Rs 50,000 fine

The Delhi government is considering imposing a fine of Rs 50,000 for drinking in public places.

The government also plans to amend the law to make drinking in public a non-bailable offence. As of now, drinking in public attracts a fine of only Rs 200 and is a bailable offence.

The move is being seen as an effort towards better law and order in the run-up to the Commonwealth Games next year. But many fear it would boost corruption as offenders would be ready to pay hefty bribes to avoid the Rs 50,000 fine.

The Delhi government had recently allowed sale of certain kinds of alcoholic beverages, including wine and beer, in malls. link