Fee Refund Announced for Cancelled Bar Applicant Lottery in Andhra Pradesh

Rapid Summary

• Under the New Bar Policy 2025-28 in Andhra Pradesh, application fees will be refunded if fewer than four applications are received for a specific bar and the draw of lots is not conducted.
• The policy covers 840 bars in the open category and 84 bars in the reserved category for toddy tappers (Geethakulalu), with licences granted through a draw of lots.
• Rule 13(1)(a) requires applicants to file multiple applications, each with a non-refundable ₹5,00,000 application fee and ₹10,000 processing fee.
• Rule 13(8)(c) mandates that at least four applications be submitted for bar selection; or else, the last date for receipt of applications might potentially be extended.
• Director of Excise and Prohibition Nishant Kumar clarified refund policies to address ambiguities regarding scenarios where minimum application numbers are not met.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The clarification by Andhra Pradesh’s Excise Department on refunding application fees under specific conditions addresses a notable concern among prospective applicants. By reducing apprehensions around financial risk in contexts where licensing draws cannot occur due to insufficient interest or participation, this move aims to bolster transparency within public administration processes. Moreover, aligning policy implementation with clear rules reassures stakeholders about fairness and accountability within governance structures.

For aspiring licensees from both open categories and toddy tapper communities (Geethakulalu), this update provides clarity while encouraging broader participation without undue economic hesitation. It also highlights how inclusivity within public policies like reserved categories attempts to balance social equity objectives alongside operational challenges.

Read more: August 22 – IST