Red alert in Kerala to avert possible liquor tragedy

 The State Excise Commissioner on Wednesday issued a red alert in Kerala after an intelligence warning against a possible liquor tragedy, ahead of Assembly polls next month. The State Intelligence had recently warned that flow of spurious liquor and synthetic toddy might increase following the closure of bars after the government adopted a liquor policy that restricted the availability of alcohol.  

 The report stated of a possibility that the liquor lobby is likely to exploit the situation and create trouble. It also urged the government to take steps to prevent the flow of liquor from neighbouring states. 

Some leaders of the ruling United Democratic Front had alleged earlier that there was a possibility that the opposition conspiring to cause liquor poisoning on a mass scale to undermine government's decision to close down bars. Excise Minister K Babu had asked Excise secretary to intensify the raids against the transportation and stocking of spurious liquor and toddy. 

Considering the seriousness of the situation, the government has directed the District Collectors to co-ordinate with Excise and Police Departments. Joint search operations by Forest, Revenue, Excise and Police personnel are also underway.  
 

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