THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The increase in the price of liquor in the state has come into effect from today. The sales tax has been increased by two percent. For common brands, the increase is up to Rs.20. Along with liquor, the sales tax on beer and wine has been increased by two percent. Jawan is the cheapest government manufactured liquor.

Yesterday, the governor signed the bill passed by the assembly session increasing the price of liquor. It was announced that the price of nine brands of liquor will increase from January 1, but the price increase will be applicable only to common brands. It was earlier decided to introduce the new rates from January. But as the order stated that the new rate will come into immediate effect, sales as per the new rate started from today.

The opposition had come out against the decision to increase the price of liquor earlier. Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan had said that the decision is unscientific and the allegation that CPM had intervened on behalf of big liquor companies should be investigated.