Backlash forces Govt to disown brandy naming contest

The government moved swiftly on Wednesday to separate itself from a public naming contest announced by the Kerala State Beverages Corporation for a new brandy planned at its revived distillery in Palakkad district, as criticism gathered pace from a Catholic Church-backed anti-liquor committee and opposition leaders demanded clarity on the administration’s stance.

- HD Bureau

Excise Minister M. B. Rajesh said the decision to invite the public to suggest a name and logo for the proposed brand rested entirely with the state-owned beverages retailer, which operates as a company with its own board and management.

The advertisement, he said, was not issued by the government, and no political clearance was sought or granted for the initiative. The minister added that the department had taken note of the reactions triggered by the announcement and had sought an explanation from the corporation.