CHENNAI: The Madras High Court has directed officials to immediately conduct an inquiry and take appropriate action if complaints are received during New Year celebrations that children are being taken to places where alcohol is consumed in star hotels and restaurants.

The direction was issued while hearing a petition filed by M Kamesh of Tiruverkadu, who alleged that at the New Year fete at a star hotel in Egmore last year, children were taken to areas where alcohol was being served.

Submitting that it was illegal and contrary to the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act, he expressed concern that exposing children to such environments would adversely affect their future. He also sought directions to take action against the star hotel that permitted children in areas where alcohol was consumed.

Also, noting that the New Year is approaching, the petitioner requested the court to direct the government to ensure that children are not allowed to participate in New Year celebrations at star hotels where alcohol is served.

After hearing the matter, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and G Arul Murugan directed the authorities to immediately enquire into such complaints and take action if children are found to have been taken to places where alcohol is consumed in star hotels and restaurants during the upcoming New Year celebrations. With these directions, the court disposed of the petition.