States have been advised to consider "indirect sale, home delivery" of liquor to ensure minimal crowds and enforcement of social distancing protocols at alcohol shops across the country, the Supreme Court said today, declining to entertain a PIL (public interest litigation) seeking a ban on direct sale of liquor (sale through shops) during the lockdown period. 

Justices Ashok Bhushan, Sanjay Kishan Kaul and BR Gavai heard the case via video-conferencing as the Supreme Court continues to follow distancing norms enforced during the extended lockdown.

"We will not pass any order but states should consider home delivery or indirect sale of liquor to maintain social distancing," the three-judge bench of the top court said in response to the petition.

"Discussion on home delivery (of alcohol) is going on. What do you want us to do?" Justice Kaul added.

App-based food delivery company Zomato is said to be considering branching out into door-delivery of alcohol, according to a document seen by news agency Reuters.

There is currently no legal provision for home deliveries of alcohol in India, something industry body International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI), Zomato and others, are lobbying to change.

Appearing for the petitioner, lawyer J Sai Deepak argued social distancing was difficult to ensure at alcohol shops because of the limited number allowed to re-open and the massive crowds outside each.

"I only want (that the) life of (the) common man should not be affected because of liquor sales. MHA (Home Ministry) should issue clarification to states on liquor sales," Mr Sai argued.