Kerala UDF Government Outlines Plans for New Liquor Policy

The Kerala government is drafting a new liquor policy focused on promoting responsible alcohol consumption while balancing the needs of the tourism industry, according to Excise Minister M Liju. Speaking in Thrissur, Liju stated that the UDF administration intends to move away from the approach adopted by the previous LDF government, emphasizing a greater focus on social responsibility.

Key Policy Objectives

• Reducing Consumption: The government aims to implement measures to lower overall alcohol consumption in the state.
• Protecting Tourism: Officials intend to ensure that policy shifts do not negatively impact the tourism sector, which serves as a major source of employment and economic activity.
• Administrative Oversight: The Excise Department is currently investigating whether some liquor licences issued recently by subordinate officials align with the current government’s policy goals or contradict them.

Review of Previous Decisions

Minister Liju specifically addressed the previous administration's 'Horti Wines' policy. The current government has already cancelled a bakery's licence to sell such products, arguing that beverages containing 15 per cent alcohol should not be distributed through retail food outlets. The Minister stated that while the initiative was intended to support farmers, the distribution methods must reflect social responsibility.

Next Steps

The government completed initial discussions regarding the new policy in October and has informed the Kerala High Court of its intent to announce the final policy in November. The Minister confirmed that any licences found to be issued in violation of the government's stance will face scrutiny and potential action.