UDF allows 'practical changes' in liquor policy

The Congress-led ruling UDF, after heated discussions Monday, finally gave the nod for 'practical changes' to the liquor policy announced in August.

Since the new liquor policy aiming at total prohibition was announced, numerous organisations have opposed it but Congress president V.M. Sudheeran was unyielding.

However, Monday Sudheeran found himself alone with the others demanding certain practical changes in the policy.

Addressing reporters here after the more than three-hour long UDF meeting, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the fundamentals of the liquor policy announced in August remain the same.

"The UDF has asked the cabinet to take the final call. It would now decide steps on the already declared Sundays as dry days, the tourism sectors demands and the issues of the employees who would lose their jobs. It was also decided to ask the labour secretary and the tourism secretary to prepare a report on the impact of the liquor policy and also what needs to be done on wine, beer parlours and also clubs," said Chandy.

"Sudheeran did not agree fully to the suggestions that were made. He wanted a comprehensive study. We all know the passion and commitment he has on this liquor issue. We all took his opposition in positive spirit," added Chandy.

Chandy pointed out that there is no change in the earlier decision of ensuring that the availability of liquor be reduced and the state reach total prohibition on Oct 2nd 2024.

"Our allies barring the Kerala Congress (Pillai) agreed to the decision. Our commitment to achieve prohibition stands and there is no dilution of that, but some 'practical changes' would be there. As and when we get the reports, the cabinet will decide," added Chandy.