K Surendran demands probe by central agency into liquor policy row

Thiruvananthapuram: BJP state president K. Surendran has launched a scathing criticism against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his ministers over allegations concerning the liquor policy.

Surendran alleged that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan views Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as a role model for altering the state's liquor policy by accepting funds. He insisted that central agencies should investigate the allegations.

The BJP leader also remarked that Pinarayi Vijayan should not expect the relief received by Kejriwal from the court as the elections are not around the corner. 

"Two ministers are attempting to justify the corruption associated with convening a meeting to amend the liquor policy and the collection of funds from bar owners. The Excise Minister claims that there was no discussion about the liquor policy. However, the public cannot be fooled by such claims. Ministers MB Rajesh and Mohammed Riyas should remember that the Delhi Excise Minister, accused in a liquor scam, spent a year and a half behind bars," he stated.

He also criticised the UDF, claiming that the opposition leader's speeches on the issue were driven solely by personal gain and showed no concern for the public.