Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 2 (PTI) – Amid mounting criticism over the Kerala government’s approval of a brewery project in Palakkad, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), an ally of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), has demanded an immediate discussion on the matter and urged a suspension of all related procedures until further deliberation.
Speaking to reporters after the party’s state leadership meeting, RJD Secretary General Varghese George announced that the party would formally submit a letter to the LDF convenor, requesting a review of the decision.
Concerns Over Environment, Panchayat Approval, and Water Resources
Varghese highlighted multiple concerns surrounding the proposed brewery unit, including environmental impact, local panchayat approval, and water resource availability. He insisted that major policy decisions of this nature should first be approved by the LDF coalition."When the cabinet decides on such a matter, there must be approval from the front. This has not happened," he stated, emphasizing the need for internal discussions before proceeding.
Echoes of Plachimada Coca-Cola Protests
Drawing parallels with the historic protests against the Coca-Cola plant in Plachimada, Palakkad, Varghese asserted that if public pressure could shut down a multinational corporation’s operations, stopping a brewery unit would not be difficult.The RJD leadership also expressed concerns about rising alcohol consumption in Kerala, stating that easy liquor availability was negatively impacting the state's social environment. The party has proposed stricter regulations to curb this issue.
Political Opposition and Allegations of Corruption
The Kerala cabinet recently approved a proposal by Oasis Commercial Pvt Ltd to establish the brewery at Kanchikode, Palakkad, subject to compliance with existing guidelines. However, the decision has sparked controversy, with both the Congress and BJP questioning the approval and alleging corruption behind the move.With protests gaining momentum, the RJD state leadership has resolved to push for a thorough discussion within the LDF before any further action is taken.