Amidst Leader of the Opposition V.S. Achuthanandan’s fervent demand for removing the Advocate General from the post, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing the liquor policy in a flawless manner.
During the course of discussions on leave for an adjournment motion of A. Pradeep Kumar about the government move to grant licence to beer and wine parlours and alter the liquor policy in the Assembly on Wednesday, Mr. Achuthanandan alleged that the Advocate General had summoned officials investigating the bar bribery case against Finance Minister K.M. Mani and held parleys with them. Hence, he should be removed from the post.
Mr. Achuthanandan accused the government of altering the policy to save Mr.Mani.
Replying to the notice, Mr. Chandy said the government would not deviate from the basic policy but would consider the observations of the court, its impact on various sectors, including tourism, suicide of 10 bar workers, and also consider issues such as licence to beer and wine parlours and clubs, which the United Democratic Front had not taken a call, and then make a final conclusion.
Due importance would be given to the Udayabhanu Commission which went into the issue. The policy would be a blend of prohibition and abstinence.
The government was keen on saying no to liquor, he said.
Based on the explanation, Deputy Speaker N. Sakthan denied leave for the motion and the Opposition walked out in protest.
