Kochi: The Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) Anti-Liquor Committee has strongly criticised the state government's alcohol policy, alleging there is an ongoing effort to drown Kerala in liquor.

The committee also stated that the government-led anti-drug campaigns have been largely ineffective. These remarks were made in a circular issued for reading in churches on Sunday in connection with Anti-Liquor and Anti-Drug Day.

"Many governments, after securing consecutive terms in power, resort to increasing revenue through measures such as the production and distribution of alcohol. As part of this, the number of bars and beer parlours in Kerala is rising.

“Bars and pubs are now opening even in IT parks. Permission has been granted for a distillery in Elappully. Such moves indicate an attempt to drown Kerala in alcohol. In addition, migrant workers coming to Kerala from other states should be subjected to thorough screening," the circular stated.