Patna: With Bihar’s Assembly elections anticipated in October-November this year, the state government is significantly escalating its crackdown on illegal liquor. The Excise Department has intensified its efforts to prevent the distribution and consumption of illicit alcohol among voters and candidates during the upcoming polls.
Rajneesh Kumar Singh, Commissioner of the Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department, has directed prohibition officials to formulate a robust action plan to ensure strict enforcement of the liquor ban across Bihar during the election period.
Comprehensive Review and Enhanced Surveillance
Commissioner Rajneesh Singh chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the department in Patna on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by Prohibition Assistant Commissioners and Superintendents from all districts. During the session, the Commissioner assessed the actions taken thus far under the state’s liquor prohibition law. Crucially, instructions were issued to increase the level of surveillance to curb liquor smuggling, especially in the run-up to the elections.
Departmental sources indicate that an updated report on district-wise raids, arrests, prosecutions, vehicle seizures, auctions, and destruction of illicit liquor was sought during the review. The status of surprise inspections of Excise Police Stations, Malkhanas (storage facilities for seized goods), and checkposts in 2025 was also reviewed, signaling a push for greater accountability and vigilance.
Ongoing Challenge of Prohibition Enforcement
Bihar has maintained a complete liquor ban since 2016, prohibiting the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol throughout the state. Despite this stringent law, the illegal liquor business continues to operate in various pockets. The Excise and Prohibition Department has been consistently engaged in operations against illegal liquor manufacturing units and traders.
However, the upcoming Assembly elections pose a renewed challenge, as there is a heightened possibility of increased smuggling and distribution of illegal liquor to influence voters. The department is gearing up to counter this anticipated surge, aiming to ensure a free and fair electoral process unmarred by illicit alcohol.
