Thiruvananthapuram: The state govt has put on hold the sale of horti-wine, with an alcohol content of 15.5%, through bakeries, malls, hypermarkets and supermarkets until a new liquor policy is announced. The decision follows a controversy over a licence granted to a bakery in Chalakudy.The excise department has also removed deputy commissioner C K Anilkumar, who granted the licence, from his post. V Subhash has been appointed in his place.The govt clarified that the licence was issued in June without the knowledge of chief minister V D Satheesan and excise minister M Liju. It has initiated steps to seek legal advice on withdrawing the permission, while Liju has sought an urgent report from the excise commissioner on the commencement of horti-wine sales through bakeries.Earlier, citing concerns about the social impact of such permits, Liju said there might be no technical issue with the excise commissioner granting permission under existing rules, but the matter should have been brought to his attention.The controversy arose before the govt took a policy decision on selling low-alcohol beverages through outlets other than those of Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco). The excise commissionerate, however, maintained that the licence was issued in accordance with existing rules.The regulatory framework originated in the LDF govt’s 2022-23 liquor policy, which permitted small-scale production of fruit-based wine. The Kerala Small Scale Winery Rules were introduced in 2022, and subsequent amendments allowed sales outside Bevco outlets. In Sept 2025, the minimum floor area for eligible retail outlets was reduced from 100 sq m to 10 sq m.Horti-wine attracts an 86% tax, similar to regular wine. Entrepreneurs have sought a tax reduction to make the product commercially viable. The govt is reviewing the issue as part of its broader reconsideration of liquor policy, with legal advice expected to guide its next move.
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