A KCBC panel condemned measures to cut taxes on soft drinks

Bishop Ambrose Puthenveettil, Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) Temperance Commission Chairman, has opposed the United Democratic Front (UDF) government’s budget proposal to reduce taxes on soft drinks.

In a message issued to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Friday, the bishop said no political front or government can ignore public opinion and remain committed to policies that go against the interests of the people.

“The government should take note of a report submitted by former Excise Commissioner Rishiraj Singh during the tenure of the previous government, which warned that the production and distribution of soft drinks could expose even students to the dangers of alcohol,” the bishop said.

He added that the UDF should enforce its long-term liquor policy as well as the commitments made in its election manifesto. “The government should not continue with the liquor policy which is harmful to the society and will cause strong public protests,” he added.

On the UDF government’s anti-drug drive ‘Operation Toofan’, the bishop said the achievements of such a mission should not be undermined by promoting the spread of another form of narcotic.

Published – 27 Jun 2026 0:55 AM IST