Patna, Aug 14 (IANS) A fresh political debate has erupted in Bihar over the state’s prohibition policy, with leaders from different sides calling for a review of the existing liquor ban.
The controversy intensified after a recent survey reportedly recommended reconsidering or ending prohibition in Bihar.
Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) patron Jitan Ram Manjhi, a government ally, has advocated strengthening prohibition along the lines of the Gujarat model.
Independent Purnea MP Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav has now backed Manjhi’s call to rethink the policy, while proposing changes to how prohibition is implemented.
Speaking to the media after arriving in Patna from Delhi on Friday, Yadav argued that the government should reassess the prohibition framework rather than continue with the existing system.
He suggested that restrictions could remain particularly stringent around schools and temples, while different rules could potentially be considered for five‑star and seven‑star hotels.
Yadav also questioned the economic impact of the current prohibition regime. He alleged that Bihar is losing potential revenue while illegal liquor trade is generating money for politicians, officials and criminal networks.
He called for a comprehensive assessment of whether the existing policy is achieving its intended objectives.
Commenting on the Janata Dal (United)’s reported legal notice to the agency that conducted the prohibition survey, Yadav said that Nitish Kumar’s position and vision on prohibition should be respected.
At the same time, he argued that laws should be periodically reviewed to assess their effectiveness and unintended consequences.
According to Yadav, the government should examine the gains and losses of prohibition and consider whether changes are needed in its implementation.
The latest remarks have added another dimension to the growing political debate over Bihar’s prohibition policy, with Manjhi advocating the Gujarat model, Pappu Yadav calling for a revised approach, and the ruling JD‑U continuing to defend the policy associated with Nitish Kumar’s political vision.
–IANS
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