Excise Minister M. Liju defended recent Budget move to cut taxes on low-alcohol drinks . Government hasn't decided on introducing these products yet,he said. It's just a financial tweak,not a policy change . Liju noted the previous LDF government amended Abkari Act in 2023 to create category for beverages with 0.5%-20% alcohol, and tweaked it again in 2025.
“LDF leaders who brought these rules now criticize the move . What's the logic?” Liju asked at a press briefing. No formal policy decision yet from Excise department,he added. Talks on state's liquor policy will happen after Assembly session .
Backing proposal,State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said no new bars have been okayed since UDF took office. He stressed administration's commitment to gradually cut alcohol use and availability. “No one should question our sincerity. We have a clear policy,” Chennithala said in Kozhikode.
But local leaders like Bishop Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil slammed proposal,arguing it sends wrong message to society. Urged government to rethink…
