THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Instead of towing the UDF line of liquor ban by closing down bars, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) would ensure abstinence from alcohol. The LDF manifesto for the Assembly polls - which was given final shape on Tuesday - envisages a liquor policy of bringing down alcohol consumption in a phased manner.
The LDF would bring out its poll manifesto on April 21. Contrary to allegations that the Left was trying to reopen the closed bars, the manifesto will not have any such promises. The existing scenario of bar closure will remain.
Taking a pro-development and people-oriented approach, the Left manifesto has taken up issues of agriculture crisis and also maintained an environmental-friendly view.
A developmental perspective based on the proposals that were mooted at the recent International Kerala Study Congress have found a place in the manifesto of the Left.
All people-oriented issues including high speed rail network would be a part of the manifesto. ‘Visakkunnavarillatha Keralam’ (Hunger-free Kerala) would be another important feature. Along with it, the manifesto will stress on the fight against corruption, projecting the Corruption Free Kerala slogan during the campaign. The development projects would be made environment-friendly. The safety and security of individuals would be ensured, the manifesto stated.
The UDF Govt's Method
The Oommen Chandy-led UDF government’s liquor policy brought out in 2014 proposed liquor ban through a slew of measures. Closing down three-star and four-star bars along with winding up 10% of retail outlets (Bevco and Consumerfed) every year were part of the steps.
