T’puram: The state govt will soon initiate consultations and preparatory work for a new liquor policy, with excise minister M Liju saying the UDF administration intends to adopt a socially responsible approach that differs from the previous LDF govt’s policy.Addressing reporters, Liju said that the LDF’s liquor policy was designed to increase alcohol consumption, while the new policy would focus on balancing regulation with social responsibility. He said the govt would consult liquor traders, social activists, public health experts and other stakeholders before finalizing the policy.Addressing the controversy over low-alcohol beverages, the minister claimed that the concept was not introduced by the present govt. According to Liju, the LDF govt had already paved the way for such products, while the current budget merely specified the tax rates that would apply if they are permitted for sale in Kerala.“The announcement of a tax structure does not mean low-alcohol beverages will automatically be introduced,” Liju said. He pointed out that any decision to market such products would require statutory procedures, including approvals and licences from the excise department.The minister said no final decision on low-alcohol beverages would be taken until the new liquor policy is completed.
