Kerala's Liquor Policy Streamlining and Teacher Regularisation Controversies

The Kerala government’s recent changes to bar operating hours and its plans to regularize teachers in aided schools have sparked controversy. Opposition parties accuse the Left government of economic mismanagement, while proponents argue the measures address discrimination and long-standing legal issues.

The Kerala government's decision to adjust bar operating hours has ignited a political debate, with Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K Mani describing it as a mere streamlining of the existing liquor policy. This move, however, attracted criticism from state BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who dismissed it as the sole achievement of ten years under Left rule.

Chandrasekhar accused the government of attempting to generate revenue through bars amidst a struggling state economy, further alleging that the Left administration, despite spending Rs 22 lakh crore, had little progress to demonstrate. He called for the government's resignation, citing economic and administrative failure.

Additionally, the announcement to regularize nearly 20,000 teachers in aided schools was defended by Mani and supported by State Excise Minister M B Rajesh. They stated this step addressed complaints of discrimination in bar hours and aimed to resolve pending legal issues concerning teacher appointments. Coming ahead of elections, these decisions hold significant political weight.

(With inputs from agencies.)