CPI(M) opposes re-promulgation of Kerala Lokayukta Act; new liquor policy approved
India Today
The Kerala cabinet decided to recommend the re-promulgation of the controversial ordinance that amended the Kerala Lokayukta Act, a move that the ruling CPI(M) is against.
In a significant move, a meeting of the Council of Ministers decided to recommend the re-promulgation of the controversial ordinance that amended the Kerala Lokayukta Act, 1999.
Ministers belonging to the CPI(M), however, opposed the move during the Cabinet meet chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday.
The initial ordinance aimed at curbing the powers of the government ombudsman will expire on Friday. The ordinance will now again be sent to the Governor for approval.
READ | Kerala government moves to dilute powers of Lokayukta, triggers row
A new liquor policy has also been approved by the government. A slight increase in bar and club license fees, and implementation of a track and trace system right from collection to distribution are also part of the policy.
The 72 BEVCO outlets that were shut down as part of the new liquor policy back in 2016 will be opened. The first day of every month will be observed as a dry day moving forward also.
As part of the new liquor policy, special licenses will be issued for the supply of alcohol in IT parks to make the state “investment friendly”.
