Why Kerala’s low-alcohol liquor policy has sparked a political storm | Explained (opens original article in a new tab)

Kerala's government faces political backlash over reduced sales tax on low-alcohol liquor, with opposition accusing corruption and policy contradictions, while the government defends the move as part of agricultural support policies.

• Kerala government reduced sales tax on low-alcohol liquor to 120-175% from 251%
• Opposition accused government of corruption and protecting 'certain interests' with tax cut
• Congress leader criticized tax reduction as against UDF manifesto promise to curb alcohol use
• Previous LDF government had explored low-alcohol liquor production but shelved project
• Current government's tax structure for low-alcohol beverages differs from previous policy
• Opposition claims tax cut would cause ₹600 crore annual loss to exchequer