THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following a massive controversy over the sale of fruit-based “Horti-Wine” (containing up to 15% alcohol) through bakeries in the state, the Kerala government has ordered the immediate cancellation of these licenses.
The issue escalated after a bakery in Chalakudy began retailing the wine, triggering intense political backlash and public debate. The state government and the Excise Department faced severe criticism, with authorities clarifying that the policy implementation had proceeded at the bureaucratic level without formal ministerial or cabinet approval.
