No final decision on dry days, says Kerala chief secretary

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid controversy over reports of key tourism department officials’ participation in a meeting to chalk out a new alcohol policy for the state, Chief Secretary V Venu has sought clarification on the situation. Addressing concerns raised by various groups, Venu confirmed that while there had indeed been discussions on the matter at the bureaucratic level, no conclusive decisions had been taken on the abolition of dry days for alcohol sales.

In his statement, Venu emphasized that recent reports suggesting a decisive change in excise policy are groundless. The government’s explanations come in the wake of scrutiny by the opposition, especially in connection with allegations of bribery. The opposition pointed the finger at the Minister of Tourism, accusing him of interference in the domain of the excise office.

In a statement on Monday, the chief secretary said that as per his direction, certain talks were held to improve the financial situation of the state. There is a false campaign circulating that misinterprets these discussions, he said.

“For a long time, industrial and tourism stakeholders have been calling for an end to dry days. Stakeholders from the excise sector have also demanded the same. This topic was discussed at the excise meeting convened by the chief secretary on January 4. However, no final decision has been made,” he said in a statement.

Earlier on March 1, a meeting of secretaries chaired by the CS discussed steps to improve state finances and administrative efficiency. The effects of reducing the state debt limit were discussed. Ease of doing business reforms, the use of the urban infrastructure development fund and court cases involving the government were also discussed. The CS directed the secretaries to hold further discussions and submit ideas within two months.

The meeting identified various sectors where government revenue could be increased. One of the topics that appeared in the discussion was the ban on the sale of alcohol for twelve days a year and its negative impact on the tourism industry and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, conventions, exhibitions) business opportunities.

The CS then directed the tourism director to assess the loss incurred by the state and submit a note after the talks. The tourism director was asked to hold talks with industry stakeholders. The Tourism Director meets regularly with stakeholders. After each meeting, he also presents reports on the discussions. The CS said it was his duty to give directions to the secretaries for improving the state’s finances.