The state government of Kerala is initiating sweeping reforms to combat illegal lottery operations in the state, according to The New Indian Express.

Among the reforms that the state government plans to implement are: the conduct of live telecast of the draw of lots; setting up of more offices of the Lottery Department in other districts; and revising the prize structure.

Finance Minister Thomas Isaac believes that these reforms will help the state government rein the illegal lotteries operating in the state when asked by V D Satheesan of the Congress during a reply to a notice for adjournment motion.

During the congressional hearing, Isaac conceded that the illegal lottery called ‘ezhuthu lottery’ was thriving in Kerala.