Kerala ratifies anti-liquor policy 

The Kerala state government has ratified new legislation aimed at reducing alcohol consumption but has deferred decisions relating to beer, wine and clubs.

The Indian state has passed the new policy which represents a major step towards the governments goal of a dry state within ten years.

The new legislation is aimed at shutting down all bars in the state with the exception of those attached to five-star hotels as part of its plans to reduce the availability of liquor which have already seen the closure of 730 bars in the state, reported the New Times of India.

A decision relating to licenses for beer and wine parlors as well as elite clubs has been deferred but, according to Chief Minister Ooman Chandy, these will be taken into consideration at the next cabinet meeting.

In the meantime 312 bars attached to hotels below five-star level and 418 bars which did not meet criteria set in April will not have their licenses renewed and will be forced to close by September 12.

Kerala has the highest per capita alcohol consumption in India, something the current government is looking to change.