Thiruvananthapuram: A complaint which had been filed by bar owners, against individuals who demanded money for election-funds, to the Chief Minister has come out. It has thus been revealed that even before the leaked audio recording emerged, a complaint had reached the Chief Minister's office concerning money being demanded from bar owners for favours in liquor policies. The complaint, dating back to April 12, highlighted that the Federation of Kerala Hotel Association was coercing bar owners to contribute money in the name of supporting the Chief Minister and other ministers. The Chief Minister had passed on the complaint to the Excise Commissioner for investigation. However, after two months, the Commissioner requested bar owners to report any grievances only the other day. If a complaint is received about funds being collected in the name of the Chief Minister or others, it is natural to act promptly. The delay in this case is unusual.

A meeting held in Ernakulam on May 23 put forth a strict directive that every bar owner must contribute to the collection. A voice message circulated among members stated that Rs 2.5 lakh were required from each owner to secure concessions in liquor policies, including scrapping dry day, extending bar hours and reducing excise inspections.

Allegation of case filed against non-payers

It has been alleged in the complaint to CM that action had been taken against those who failed to comply with the money demands. This complaint indicates that the Chief Minister and the government were already aware of the collection drive by the organisation. Bar owners allege that this collection was demanded in the name of political leadership. The complaint also alleges that those who didn't contribute during elections faced excise cases.

On March 24, Mathrubhumi had reported the news of the audio clip that emerged on March 23.. Upon news of the voice message leak, the accused organisation clarified that the funds collected were not for the government but for constructing their building. The government has initiated an investigation as well, denying any involvement in the collection. The initial complaint from April 12 outlined the financial strain faced by bar owners, who were pressured to contribute significant sums for election purposes. It also mentioned previous instances where refusal to pay resulted in threats and legal action.

From the complaint filed to the CM on April 12

“We, who are running the hotel and bar business with a huge investment, are facing considerable financial burdens due to the upcoming elections. The parent organisation FKHA proposed that every bar hotel should pay Rs 2,50,000, as per instructions from you, the tourism and excise ministers, and the party, in connection with the elections. This poses a serious burden for us, considering our financial difficulties after licence renewal.

In addition to the local donations made during the last assembly elections, leaders of the organisation collected Rs 1,00,000 in the name of the party. By doing so, they secured positions as well.

This time as well, money is being collected in your name. Those who refuse to pay are threatened with legal action against excise officials. During the last election, threats were made through excise officials and money was extorted. Cases were filed against those who did not pay. This year as well, Rs 1,00,000, has been collected claiming that it's for constructing the building. It is due to fear of their threats that this information is presented in this manner to you.”