Kerala CM Deflects Bacardi Tax Allegations to Predecessor

Satheesan targeted the Opposition for distorting the timeline of the tax adjustments, clarifying that the current government merely modified rates established by their predecessors. He pointed to CPM state secretary MV Govindan, noting that the initiative to examine applications for beverages containing up to 20 percent alcohol began within six months of Govindan taking office under the former cabinet.

The Chief Minister further challenged the Opposition’s record on liquor policy, highlighting that the number of bars operating in the state surged during Pinarayi Vijayan's tenure. By framing the current tax adjustments as a continuation of the 2022 liquor policy, Satheesan sought to neutralize political pressure and refocus the debate on the previous government's expansionist approach to the industry.