Thiruvananthapuram: A 2018 letter written by former Kerala Excise Commissioner Rishiraj Singh has resurfaced, showing that he opposed the introduction of low-alcohol beverages in the state. The document has added a new twist to the ongoing political debate over Kerala’s liquor policy.
Rishiraj Singh Raised Concerns
According to official records, Rishiraj Singh wrote to the then Tax Department Secretary on August 13, 2018. He opposed the proposal to allow Bacardi Breezer and Bacardi Plus through Kerala State Beverages Corporation (BEVCO).
He warned that low-alcohol beverages could encourage alcohol consumption among school students and young people. He said these products might appear similar to soft drinks and could become a stepping stone to stronger alcoholic drinks.
Government Rejected the Objection
The Tax Department did not accept the Excise Commissioner’s recommendation. Officials said the proposal had already received support from the BEVCO Managing Director. They also stated that Rishiraj Singh had earlier supported the licensing process and that his later letter did not provide fresh evidence. The department decided to continue with the approval process.
Rule Changes Followed
The government later amended the Foreign Liquor Rules to create a separate category for low-alcohol beverages. In 2019, the government also approved the production of low-alcohol drinks made from fruits in the state.
Bacardi Sought Approval Again
In 2021, the Tax Department asked the Excise Department to study how Tamil Nadu and Karnataka regulated low-alcohol beverages. Later that year, Bacardi again approached the Excise Minister seeking permission to sell Bacardi Breezer and Bacardi Plus in Kerala.
The resurfacing of the 2018 letter has renewed political debate over the state’s low-alcohol beverage policy, with both the ruling and opposition parties citing past decisions to defend their positions.