Tourism sector development: Liquor policy omitted in director's meeting, clarifies tourism director

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In relation to the development of the tourism sector, in the meeting called by the tourism director on the last 21st, the liquor policy was not discussed by the director. The director clarified that the meeting was not called as per the directive of the minister.

According to the explanatory note, Federation of Kerala Hotels Association, an organization of bar owners, was also invited. The meeting was called to discuss the demands of various organizations. Tourism Director's explanation came after Minister MB Rajesh and CPM State Secretary MV Govindan said that no discussion had taken place with the bar owners.

However, the leaders of the bar owners' organization stated that they have raised the demand to avoid the dry day on the first day. Moreover, the subject of elimination of dry day was included as items 19 and 20 in the agenda of the monthly meeting of department secretaries convened by the Chief Secretary on March 1. This was following the recommendation of the Department of Tourism.

Seven organizations such as Kerala Travelmart Society, Event Management Association and House Boat Association were invited to the meeting of the Director of Tourism. Tourists come in groups from the northern states as part of the celebrations. Therefore, FKHA had also demanded special permission to extend the working hours of the bars. In continuation of these official meetings, the executive meeting of the Ernakulam Bar Owners Association was held. Naturally, the discussions in the official meetings were explained by the leaders of the organization. The Whatsapp message was prompted by a minor disagreement in the meeting.

A ministerial discussion was scheduled with FKHA and liquor company representatives on June 13 after the withdrawal of the election code of conduct. It is known to have been abandoned for the time being.