20. Closing of shops for the preservation of public peace.
(1)The District Magistrate (Independent) may, by notice in writing to the licensee, require that any shops in which any intoxicant is sold shall be closed at such times and for such period as he may think necessary for the preservation of the public peace.(2)If any riot or any unlawful assembly is apprehended or occurs in the vicinity of any such shop, any Magistrate or any Police Officer not below the rank of a Sub-Inspector, who is present, may require such shop to be kept closed for such period as he may think necessary:Provided that where a riot or unlawful assembly so occurs, the licensee shall, in the absence of such Magistrate or Officer, close the shop without any order and keep it closed during the continuance of such riot or unlawful assembly ;Provided further that the licensee shall not be entitled to any compensation for the closure of the shops ordered under this section.
