Sudheeran, CPI(M) Attack Kerala Government Over Liquor Tax Concession

The controversy surrounding the UDF government's proposal to reduce taxes on low-alcohol beverages intensified on Sunday, with veteran Congress leader V M Sudheeran urging the government to immediately withdraw the measure, arguing that it contradicts the coalition's commitment to curb alcohol consumption in Kerala.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister V D Satheesan , Sudheeran said the proposal was inconsistent with the UDF's election manifesto, which promised strong and effective measures to check the spread of alcohol and narcotic substances. He contended that lowering taxes on alcoholic beverages would encourage consumption and amount to a breach of the commitment made to the people.

Citing the World Health Organization's position that no level of alcohol consumption is safe, Sudheeran urged the government not to proceed with the proposal under any circumstances.

The issue has also sparked criticism from the opposition. CPI(M) leader K T Jaleel mocked the budget announcement in a social media post, alleging that the tax concession would make low-intensity liquor more accessible and questioning the silence of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key UDF ally. He also criticised religious organisations and leaders for not raising objections to the proposal.

Defending the government's stand, Local Self Government Minister K M Shaji reiterated the IUML's opposition to alcohol and said the UDF's broader liquor policy was aimed at reducing consumption. He accused the previous LDF government of contributing to higher alcohol consumption during its tenure.

The controversy erupted after the UDF government's maiden budget proposed a reduction in taxes on low-alcohol beverages. While the government maintains that the measure concerns taxation alone and does not involve introducing new liquor products, the opposition has alleged that it could benefit liquor companies and lead to increased alcohol consumption, particularly among young people.