Liquor ban in Bihar can be discussed, says Tejashwi Yadav

RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav has dropped a broad hint that if the INDIA bloc forms government in Bihar after the Assembly elections, due in October-November, it may review the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act 2016 imposed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Replying to a question during media interaction on Sunday in Patna, he said that if the question arises after the formation of the INDIA bloc government it can be discussed with all stakeholders.

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He said: “If questions are raised (regarding prohibition of alcohol), it should be discussed. If we come to power, we will hold discussions with intellectuals of the society on this issue. There will also be deliberations with those who are part of the government and with officials. After that, an appropriate decision will be taken on what further steps should be taken on this matter.”

The RJD leader’s comment has brought focus on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s much-talked about prohibition of alcohol policy imposed nine years ago.

Tejashwi has repeatedly alleged that the administration has been misusing prohibition law, harassing poor and Dalits, leading to illegal activities.

He has also claimed that the law has badly affected the Pasi community that constitutes about one per cent of Bihar population.  He has also announced that if the INDIA Alliance forms a government in Bihar, it will remove the ban from toddy and grant it industry status.

Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor has been demanding the government to revoke liquor ban in Bihar.  He has also promised that if Jan Suraaj Party forms government after the assembly elections, it will immediately revoke the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act because it has failed.

He has repeatedly said that ever since the law came into effect, only liquor shops have been closed down. But, home delivery of liquor is still available.