Kerala bars face licence threat over underage alcohol sales

The Kerala government has intensified its crackdown on underage drinking, with Excise Minister M. Liju warning bar and restaurant owners of strict enforcement action. In a directive issued to liquor licensees across the state, the minister made age verification through Aadhaar identification mandatory to prevent sales to minors.

The move comes in response to a recent road accident at Nedumbassery in which three people were killed by a drunk driver. Authorities have identified underage drinking as a persistent problem contributing to road safety incidents and public health concerns across the state.

Bar owners who fail to comply with the age verification requirement face immediate suspension of their liquor licences, the minister warned. The Excise Department has been directed to conduct regular inspections and surprise checks at licensed establishments to ensure adherence to the new protocol.

The directive applies to all retail outlets serving alcohol, including bars, restaurants, and hotels. Officials said the Aadhaar-based verification system would provide a reliable, centralized method to confirm customer age while maintaining records for regulatory oversight.

This enforcement action represents the latest in a series of measures by the Kerala government to regulate alcohol consumption and improve road safety. Transport and excise department officials have been instructed to coordinate enforcement efforts across the state.