Keralam Stops New Liquor Licences Until Policy Release

The Excise Department in Keralam has stopped issuing new liquor licences, including permits for bars and wine and beer parlours. This ban stays in place until the Congress-led United Democratic Front government releases its formal alcohol policy for the 2026-27 financial year. The decision follows the removal of Excise Commissioner Seeram Sambasiva Rao from his post on Monday, November 9, 2026.

Action

Excise Minister M. Liju previously expressed public anger after a bar licence was granted to a lounge at the Kochi airport. This approval happened even though the government had objected to a similar application. Following this controversy, the government relieved Seeram Sambasiva Rao of his duties and handed charge to the Additional Excise Commissioner. Excise Minister M. Liju has also signaled a complete review of how the state grants these licences.

Context

State governments often regulate the sale of alcohol strictly through designated excise departments and yearly policy frameworks. Changes in top bureaucratic posts frequently occur when disagreements emerge between government ministers and department officials over policy execution.