Kerala Government Halts New Liquor Licences Amid Policy Overhaul And Controversy

The Congress-led United Democratic Front government in Kerala has <b>halted the issuance of new liquor licences</b>, including for bars and wine and beer parlours. The restriction remains in place until the administration <b>promulgates its official alcohol policy</b> for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This major decision follows the recent removal of Excise Commissioner Seeram Sambasiva Rao from his post. Excise Minister M. Liju previously expressed public displeasure regarding a bar licence granted at the Kochi airport. The Additional Excise Commissioner now holds charge while officials <b>review all licence-granting procedures</b> under the ongoing investigation.