Thiruvananthapuram, 23 September (H.S.):The Kerala government is beginning consultations on a new liquor policy, with Excise Minister M Liju scheduled to meet representatives of anti-liquor organisations in the first round of talks.

The meeting will be held at Thycaud Guest House at 11.30 am. It is the first time the government has invited anti-liquor groups for discussions before framing its liquor policy. Their views will form part of a wider consultation involving people connected with the sector and those who have previously overseen excise policy.

The minister is scheduled to meet bar workers on September 25. Talks with former excise ministers are planned for the following Monday. The government had initially set September 28 as the end of the consultation period, but discussions with other groups may continue beyond that date.

Members of the public can also send their views to the excise minister by email. This is the first time the government has provided a direct channel for public suggestions ahead of a liquor policy decision. The consultations will give the administration an opportunity to hear concerns about alcohol consumption as well as the views of workers whose livelihoods are linked to the trade.

One issue awaiting a decision is the proposed sale of lower-strength alcoholic drinks. The state budget announced a lower tax rate for such products, but the UDF government has yet to decide whether to permit their sale.

The meetings come before the government settles the policy’s final provisions. No decision on the sale of lower-strength drinks has been announced, and the outcome of the consultations remains open. The government is expected to consider the submissions it receives before completing the policy. The email channel also allows people who cannot attend the meetings to place their opinions before the minister during this process.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman