Says people's opinion to be sought

Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 25 (DHNS): The CPM-led Left Democratic Front government in Kerala has hinted at a re-look on the controversial liquor policy formulated by the previous Congress-led government.

Announcing the new government’s vision statement in his policy address to the state Assembly on Friday, Governor P Sathasivam said people’s “opinion” would be sought before the government takes a stand on the policy.

The Left has been openly critical of existing liquor policy of the state which envisages phased prohibition.

“My government is of the view that restrictions on consumption of liquor have not yielded the desired positive impact. The increase in the use and availability of drugs in the state is disturbing. The opinion of people of all sections of the society will be taken into account before my government formulates its policy stand,” the governor said.

Zero tolerance

The governor’s policy address highlighted proposals to ensure “zero-tolerance” to corruption including mandatory social auditing for all local governments and key public works. The government has also pointed out a “vexing development stalemate” due to recession triggered by the oil price slump in the Middle East and undermining of the revenue collection machinery by the previous government.