BackKerala signals a reversal in liquor policy: abstinence not prohibition
The Left Front government does away with the two-year-old custom of permanently shutting down 10% of government-run liquor outlets on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti
PremiumPhoto: Mint
Bengaluru: Since 2014, every 2 October, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Kerala shut down 10% of the government-run liquor outlets permanently.
Not anymore.
Kerala’s new Left Front government on Wednesday decided not to continue with this custom, which was started by the previous Congress-led government, as part of its move to practise abstinence rather than prohibition.
The move signals a reversal of the prohibition policy.
“39 beverage outlets (10% of total 390) were supposed to shut down permanently on this 2 October. We decided not to shut them down because we are for abstinence, not prohibition," excise minister T.P. Ramakrishnan said from Kerala over phone.
The previous government imposed gradual prohibition from 1 April 2014 in the state, at an estimated loss of ₹ 1,800 crore to the exchequer, citing risk to public health from alcohol.
Kerala consumes more alcohol than any other Indian state—official estimates peg the per capita consumption at more than eight litres per person per year.
Ramakrishnan said until a fresh alcohol policy or an amendment to the previous one comes into effect, which is expected before the next financial year, the government is planning to retain the status quo on matters related to liquor.
Opposition leaders from the Congress, meanwhile, seem rattled with the decision to reverse key policy decisions taken by them.
“The new government is planning to sabotage the prohibition policy introduced by the Congress, it will be strongly opposed," said opposition leader in the state assembly Ramesh Chennithala in a statement.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
