In a decision emblematic of the prioritization of fundamental freedoms, the plea submitted by the Meghalaya government, challenging the ban on its lottery by various states, was recently rejected by the Supreme Court.

The bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan set a precedent by affirming that matters pertaining to human liberty take precedence over revenue-generating endeavors such as lotteries. Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the State of Meghalaya, fervently argued for an expedited resolution, citing the substantial impact on the state's revenue. However, Justice Oka poignantly remarked, "We have matters of human liberty that are more important than lottery!"

The essence of the case revolves around the Meghalaya government's challenge against Section 5 of the Lotteries (Regulation) Act, which empowers states to prohibit the sale of lottery tickets organized by other states. Meghalaya's contention rests on the assertion that such provisions infringe upon its constitutional rights and impede its ability to conduct business under Article 298(b).

Despite the state's plea for a swiffer resolution, the Supreme Court remained steadfast in its commitment to due process, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of the constitutional validity of the contested provisions. The court's decision to prioritize the preservation of human liberties serves as a testament to its role as the guardian of individual rights in a democratic society.

Furthermore, the court's acknowledgment of the constitutional implications surrounding the regulation of lotteries organized by different states underscores the intricate balance between federal and state powers in India's governance structure. By delving into the legality of states' authority to ban goods from other states within a federal framework, the Supreme Court is poised to provide clarity on this complex issue with far-reaching implications.

Case: State of Meghalaya vs Union of India and Ors.