Kerala liquor policy likely by mid-October; low-strength products unlikely for now

Thiruvananthapuram: The UDF government's liquor policy is likely to be announced by mid-October, with the extension of bar operating hours set to be reviewed. Low-strength liquor announced in the Budget is unlikely to be made available for the time being. The government is also considering measures to ensure minimum wages for bar workers.

Excise Minister M. Liju held discussions with various associations representing stakeholders in the liquor sector. The minister first held talks with organisations demanding prohibition before meeting representatives of bar owners and workers.

The consultations are still under way. A meeting planned to seek the views of former excise ministers could not be held due to logistical difficulties. Liju is now planning to meet them individually and seek their views. The consultations are expected to be completed by October 1.

The previous government had extended bar operating hours until midnight. Bar workers and others had subsequently demanded that the hours be reduced. The minister and the government have indicated that they are favourably disposed towards the demand.

As a result, bar operating hours could be reduced to 11pm or 10pm. At the same time, the government is considering allowing bars to remain open beyond the stipulated hours if they pay a specified annual fee to the government.

The new liquor policy may also provide for the participation of local self-government bodies in the process of granting bar licences. A similar system was in place during the Oommen Chandy government's tenure but was changed after the Pinarayi Vijayan government came to power.

The requirement for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local self-government body to open a new bar is also likely to be reintroduced under the UDF government's liquor policy.

The sale of low-strength liquor was included in the first Budget of the V.D. Satheesan government and generated considerable discussion. A final decision on the proposal will be taken as part of the new liquor policy. However, indications are that low-strength liquor will not be made available for the time being.