No more Horti-wine sales through bakeries; Govt with new decision, Excise Deputy Commissioner removed

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has temporarily suspended the license for the sale of 'Horti-wine' (fruit-based alcoholic beverage) through bakeries in the state. Specifically, the license granted to a bakery in Poovathussery, Thrissur, has been put on hold.

An order issued by the Additional Chief Secretary stated that this measure will remain in effect until the new liquor policy is announced. A decision on whether to retain the amendment—which permitted the sale of Horti-wine in malls, supermarkets, and bakeries—will be made based on this upcoming liquor policy. Until then, the existing order has been suspended.

The license issuance without the knowledge of the Chief Minister or the Excise Minister sparked a controversy. Upon learning of the license grant, Minister M. Liju immediately sought a report from Excise Commissioner Sambasiva Rao. Subsequently, he decided to remove Excise Deputy Commissioner C.K. Anilkumar—who had granted the permission.

The minister said it was pertinent to inform the government while taking such important decisions.

"I learned about the sale of 'Horti-wines' through media. I immediately sought an urgent report from the State Excise Commissioner. During the tenure of the previous government, amendments were made to Kerala's Abkari laws, and regulations were framed to facilitate the sale of Horti-wines. However, this government has concerns regarding the sale of these wines through shops and bakeries. This order was issued just two days after the new Excise Commissioner assumed charge. Technically, the file may not have been required to be placed before the Minister; but it is expected of the relevant authorities to inform the government before taking decisions on such important matters, including the Minister," Liju remarked.