Low-alcohol beverage: Further steps after UDF consensus

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Although the tax concession for low-alcohol beverages has been included in the Finance Bill, further steps will be taken only after reaching an agreement within the United Democratic Front (UDF). The UDF is planning to hold a meeting soon after the Kerala Assembly session concludes on July 1. However, UDF convenor Adoor Prakash said that the date has not yet been finalised.

Several issues, including the distribution of cabinet-rank posts, appointments to boards and corporations, government lawyer appointments, and the new liquor policy, are expected to be discussed within the UDF.

Some alliance partners have already expressed their views on cabinet positions, but a final decision will be taken only after discussions within the UDF. The opposition’s criticism over allowing the sale of low-alcohol beverages and providing tax concessions is expected to reduce as more documents have emerged regarding steps taken during the previous LDF government’s tenure on the issue.

CM likely to highlight additional revenue

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is expected to try to convince alliance partners by pointing out the additional revenue the government could earn through the new tax structure. The Congress is relieved as the Muslim League, a major UDF ally, has softened its stand on the issue.

The UDF may also consider the views of senior Congress leader V. M. Sudheeran while trying to resolve the matter. There is also a possibility of a UDF sub-committee being formed to examine the permission for selling low-alcohol liquor. The rules regarding the sale of such liquor have already been amended, and the issue has now been included in the Finance Bill as well. The Excise Department’s role is now limited to technical matters such as brand registration. Companies that have already applied for approval may have the option of approaching the legal system if required.

Discussions on cabinet-rank posts
Congress had reportedly considered V. M. Sudheeran for the post of chairman of the Administrative Reforms Commission, but he has expressed a lack of interest in the position. The Muslim League has shown interest in appointing M. K. Muneer to the post. Other parties, including Kerala Congress and Forward Bloc, have also raised claims for cabinet-rank positions. During the first Pinarayi Vijayan government, five cabinet-rank posts were given in addition to ministerial positions.