Corruption Crackdown: Kerala Excise Minister Orders Probe Into License Scams
Minister M Liju announces investigations into liquor license irregularities and corruption charges against current and retired excise officials.
In a decisive move to clean up the state's liquor administration, Kerala Excise Minister M Liju has announced that all corruption allegations against excise department officials will be thoroughly investigated. The Minister emphasized that the scope of these inquiries will not be limited to current employees but will also extend to officials who have already retired from service.
Focus on Liquor License Irregularities
The Minister's statement comes in response to a report detailing corruption charges against several officials. Minister Liju asserted that every allegation mentioned in the report warrants a full investigation to ensure accountability. He expressed a slight frustration regarding the timing of the report, noting that had the Excise Commissioner submitted the findings earlier, the inquiry process could have been initiated much sooner.
The government is currently scrutinizing several high-profile irregularities, including:
- The issuance of a horti-wine licence that was granted without the government's knowledge.
- The controversial conversion of beer parlours into full-fledged bars.
- The granting of FL-7 licences at airports, which occurred despite explicit opposition from the government.
Shadow of the Previous Administration
Minister Liju did not mince words when discussing the tenure of the previous government, alleging a massive surge in license approvals. According to the Minister, during the previous administration's term, more than 900 new bar licences were issued, and 488 beer and wine parlours were converted into bars.
He specifically highlighted the case of the Blueberry distillery, which was granted a licence during that period. The Minister made it clear that those who held key positions during that era would fall under the scope of the upcoming investigations.
Jurisdiction and Personal Ties
Addressing questions regarding his administrative powers, the Minister clarified the hierarchy of transfers within the department. He stated that while he possesses the authority to transfer Deputy Commissioners and Joint Deputy Commissioners, the transfers of officers below those ranks are managed by other designated officials. He pledged to intervene in all matters that fall within his specific jurisdiction.
When questioned about potential conflicts of interest or familiarity with business owners in his home constituency of Kayamkulam, Minister Liju maintained a transparent stance. He noted that he is well-acquainted with the vast majority of people in Kayamkulam, including those involved in the bar business, but reaffirmed that the latest report would be examined impartially and investigations would be launched wherever necessary.