'Online liquor sales could generate additional revenue of Rs 500 crore, agrument that houses will turn into bars has no merit'; BEVCO clarifies stance 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BEVCO Managing Director Harshitha Attaluri has dismissed the claim that online liquor sales would turn homes into bars, calling it baseless. She said that a comprehensive plan to increase revenue from liquor sales has already been submitted to the government. She also stated that restaurants in tourist destinations should be allowed to serve instant beer on tap.

“Small breweries should be permitted to produce fresh beer. The argument that online liquor sales will turn houses into bars has no merit. Sooner or later, the government will approve BEVCO's proposal. There are not enough liquor outlets in Kerala. If the idea of online liquor sales is implemented, it could generate an additional Rs 500 crore in revenue. There are only 283 liquor outlets in Kerala, whereas Karnataka and Tamil Nadu each have more than 5000. That is why liquor stores here are always crowded

The government has not taken a supportive stance, but they can take their time to consider it. People who buy liquor from shops take it home to drink anyway. How can anyone claim that minors are not being given liquor now? If liquor is being purchased illegally, it is the responsibility of the Excise and Police departments to prevent it. Bevco is running a lawful business, and the aim is to make it more profitable.

We also expect approval for low-alcohol beverages. The Finance Department’s concern that revenue will drop is unfounded. We have also requested a change in the tax structure. Discussions on this are ongoing. It is not entirely correct to say that alcohol consumption alone causes crime,” Harshitha Attaluri said.