What is the bar licence controversy in Keralam | Explained

Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan (left) with State Excise Minister M. Liju | Photo Credit: NIRMAL HARINDRAN The story so far:Amid a brewing controversy over the issuance of liquor licenses in Keralam, the Excise Department on Monday (November 9, 2026) banned the issuance of new liquor licences, including for bars and wine and beer parlours, till the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government promulgates its alcohol policy for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The move comes just a couple of days after Excise Commissioner Seeram Sambasiva Rao was relieved from the post following Excise Minister M. Liju making public his displeasure over the granting of bar licence to a lounge at the Kochi airport despite the government’s objection to a similar application. The Additional Excise Commissioner has been given charge in his place. Published - November 10, 2026 10:23 am IST