The Supreme Court of India has raised serious concerns about the sale of alcoholic beverages in tetra packs, warning that such packaging could potentially enable children to carry alcohol to schools unnoticed. The court's observations came during a hearing on November 17, 2025, while examining a trademark dispute case.
Court's Unexpected Concern During Trademark Case
During what was supposed to be a routine trademark dispute hearing, the Supreme Court bench made startling observations about alcohol packaging. The court was shown tetra packs containing whiskey that are currently available in the market, which prompted immediate concern from the justices. The hearing took place on November 17, 2025, as confirmed by court records.
Child Safety Takes Center Stage
The judges expressed particular worry about how tetra pack packaging could make alcohol easily accessible to children. The court specifically noted that such packaging could enable children to carry alcohol to schools without raising suspicion, as the containers resemble juice or milk packets commonly consumed by young students.
This unexpected turn in a trademark case highlights how the Supreme Court often addresses broader social issues that emerge during legal proceedings. The bench emphasized that packaging regulations need to consider potential misuse, especially when it comes to protecting children from exposure to alcohol.
Broader Implications for Alcohol Packaging
The court's remarks have significant implications for the alcohol industry and packaging regulations in India. While the primary case involved a trademark dispute, the judges used the opportunity to flag what they see as a serious public health concern. The observation came when lawyers presented the tetra pack whiskey as evidence in the trademark case.
The timing of these observations - November 17, 2025 - marks an important moment in the ongoing discussion about alcohol regulation in India. The court's concerns about tetra pack alcohol sales potentially compromising child safety could influence future regulations and packaging standards for alcoholic beverages across the country.
As the case continues, industry observers are watching closely to see if these observations will lead to formal recommendations or changes in how alcohol is packaged and sold in India, particularly in formats that might appeal to or be mistaken for non-alcoholic beverages commonly consumed by children.
