Apu Joseph’s comment on ‘responsible drinking’ draws ire from KCBC anti-liquor forum

While discussions surrounding the State’s liquor policy continue to stir controversy, Kerala Congress leader and Government Chief Whip Apu John Joseph has called for “responsible alcohol consumption”. Speaking to the media, Mr. Joseph stated that his party had not yet officially discussed the liquor policy.

“A party meeting will be held soon to discuss the policy,” Mr. Joseph said. “In my opinion, to avoid liquor-related issues, public awareness is needed. We should train people on how to practise responsible alcohol consumption, and this awareness should begin at a young age. Children should be educated early. Whatever the liquor policy may be, addicted drinkers will still consume alcohol,” he said.

‘Hidden agenda’

However, Mr. Joseph’s statement drew a strong backlash from Prasad Kuruvila, the State secretary and spokesperson for the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) anti-liquor samiti.

In a statement, Mr. Kuruvila criticised the Chief Whip’s approach, noting that Mr. Joseph had seemingly become a mediator for “responsible drinking.” “The response of the Government Chief Whip, suggesting that instead of reducing the availability of alcohol, children should be taught ‘responsible drinking,’ is bizarre,” Mr. Kuruvila said. “Responsible drinking and awareness campaigns will not work in Kerala after making alcohol freely and widely available. Mr. Joseph is the Chief Whip; he should not become the ‘Chief Agent.’ This response makes one suspect a hidden agenda,” he said.