Kerala's Bar Timing Revamp and Teacher Regularization: A Political Move?

Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K Mani explained the streamlining of bar timings as an effort to resolve complaints of discrimination. The Kerala government also took significant steps towards regularizing nearly 20,000 teachers in aided schools, a decision with political implications in the state.

In a bid to address longstanding complaints of discrimination, Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K Mani stated that the change in bar timings is a mere "streamlining" of the state's existing liquor policy. He emphasized the need to align operational hours across all bars, which previously varied between tourist and other locations.

The state's Excise Minister, M B Rajesh, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting this as a fair move to tackle disparity in bar operations. Beyond the liquor policy update, the Kerala government announced the regularization of 20,000 teachers in aided schools, subject to Supreme Court verdicts.

The regularization decision, unveiled by State General Education Minister V Sivankutty, aims to resolve legal issues linked to teacher appointments and reservation policies for the differently-abled. This move carries political weight as Kerala approaches elections, following protests from school managements against state policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)