Patna: In a bid to comprehensively understand public sentiment surrounding the prevailing liquor ban in Bihar, Chief Minister (CM) Nitish Kumar announced a door-to-door survey during an official program on Drug De-addiction Day on Sunday. The initiative seeks to solicit feedback from residents across the state, aiming to assess the level of support for the liquor ban implemented since April 2016.
Addressing the gathering, CM Nitish drew parallels between the proposed survey and recent caste and economic surveys, emphasizing that the government is committed to providing any necessary funds for the endeavor. Having already invested over Rs500 crore in the caste survey, the Chief Minister asserted that adequate resources would be allocated for the prohibition survey.
While acknowledging a previous small-scale survey on prohibition, CM Nitish underscored the need for a more detailed examination, particularly in light of various claims against the liquor ban. He instructed officials to engage with residents, gather feedback on the ban, and persuade those who may not be in favor of it.
Despite occasional criticisms, CM Nitish reiterated that the liquor ban would not be lifted “at any cost.” He emphasized that while some dissenting voices exist, the majority of the populace supports the prohibition, a sentiment he attributed to the persistent demand from women in the state.
The Chief Minister stressed the success of the liquor prohibition in Bihar and expressed optimism about its positive impact. To gauge public opinion thoroughly, he directed the relevant department to conduct a meticulous door-to-door survey, reaching every household in Bihar.
In the face of the liquor ban, CM Nitish highlighted a significant rise in tourist numbers across the state. Citing Rajgir as an example, he claimed that approximately 3 crore people visited the region this year alone. This surge in tourist footfall underlines the need to reassess public opinion on the prohibition policy.
CM Nitish commended the efforts of law enforcement officials, honoring the District Magistrate and Superintendents of Police from Gopalganj and Bhojpur for their commendable work in enforcing the liquor ban.
In a symbolic gesture, CM Nitish Kumar personally distributed appointment letters to newly recruited personnel in the Prohibition Department.
The program witnessed the participation of Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav and Prohibition Minister Sunil Kumar
