Leader of the Opposition V. D. Satheesan has strongly denied Kerala Excise Minister M.B. Rajesh’s assertion that the Opposition was consulted before extending bar operating hours. Satheesan labeled the decision as “mysterious” and strategically timed before elections, emphasizing that neither the government nor the Excise Minister engaged in any discussions with the Opposition regarding the extension or unification of bar timings.
Satheesan highlighted that the LDF convener or senior leaders were also unaware of the decision, questioning how the Opposition could have been informed. He pointed out that bar owners had been advocating for a timing revision for over a year and had sought support from the opposition, clarifying that the Opposition does not play a role in granting such extensions, as it falls under the government’s jurisdiction.
The Opposition leader criticized the timing of the decision, noting that it was made just before elections without presenting it before the Cabinet or engaging in broader consultations. Satheesan alleged that there was a hidden agenda behind the rushed decision, accusing the Minister of trying to divert criticism. He emphasized that if the Minister has further explanations, he should provide them without resorting to threats.
Drawing parallels with a previous brewery controversy, Satheesan highlighted the speed at which the decision was made and how it was later halted by the court. He pointed out procedural irregularities, such as a blacklisted company from Delhi applying in Kerala without the knowledge of local brewery firms, which were later judicially validated based on opposition’s observations.
While acknowledging the rationale behind extending bar hours in specific tourism hubs with active nightlife, Satheesan questioned the justification for a blanket extension across the state. He criticized the government for initially extending the timings everywhere and then expanding the list of tourism centers, raising suspicions about the decision-making process.
