Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Kerala Bars Opening Early Face License Suspension
In Kerala, bars are only allowed to open from 10 AM to 12 midnight.
The Excise Commissioner has told officers to check bars and suspend licenses if they open too early.
Some bars in Kottayam, Thrissur, and Palakkad were opening as early as 5:30 AM.
The Excise Minister said officers might be taking bribes to let bars open early.
He told bar owners to record officers if they ask for bribes.
The government will take strict action against any officers found taking bribes.
Kerala bars must operate between 10 AM and 12 midnight.
Excise Commissioner directed officers to check and suspend licenses of bars opening early.
Complaints received about bars in Kottayam, Thrissur, and Palakkad opening early.
Excise Minister M Liju alleged officers take bribes to allow early opening.
Minister suggested bar owners record officers demanding bribes for strict action.
- Who
- Kerala Excise Commissioner Sambashiva Rao, Excise Minister M Liju
- What
- Directives to suspend licenses of bars opening early
- When
- Following multiple complaints
- Where
- Kerala, specifically Kottayam, Thrissur, Palakkad districts
- Why
- To enforce legal operating hours and combat corruption
Strict Enforcement
Bar Owners' Concerns
Timing Enforcement
Strict Enforcement
Bars must operate strictly between 10 AM and 12 midnight.
Bar Owners' Concerns
Bar owners claim they need more flexible hours to operate.
Corruption Allegations
Strict Enforcement
Excise officers found taking bribes will face strict action.
Bar Owners' Concerns
Bar owners allege that officers demand bribes to allow early opening.
- Allowed Operating Hours
- 10 AM to 12 midnight
- Districts with Complaints
- Kottayam, Thrissur, Palakkad
- Action Against Officers
- Strict action for misusing power
- Minister's Suggestion
- Bar owners to record officers demanding bribes
- Event Context
- Anti-drug awareness event