What is the bar licence controversy in Keralam | Explained
Congress-led UDF govt in Keralam has barred the issuance of new liquor licences, including bars and wine and beer parlours, until a formal alcohol policy is unveiled, a move that follows the removal of Excise Commissioner Seeram Sambasiva Rao. Excise Minister M. Liju has signaled a review of licence-granting procedures
Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan (left) with State Excise Minister M. Liju
Amid a brewing controversy over the issuance of liquor licenses in Keralam, the Excise Department on Monday (November 9, 2026) banned the issuance of new liquor licences, including for bars and wine and beer parlours, till the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government promulgates its alcohol policy for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The move comes just a couple of days after Excise Commissioner Seeram Sambasiva Rao was relieved from the post following Excise Minister M. Liju making public his displeasure over the granting of bar licence to a lounge at the Kochi airport despite the government’s objection to a similar application. The Additional Excise Commissioner has been given charge in his place.
- licence
- bar
- keralam
- controversy
- excise
- congress
- udf
- govt
