Patna: The Patna High Court has made pointed observations on the implementation of Bihar’s prohibition policy while hearing an anticipatory bail plea under the state’s excise law, warning that a “parallel trade” in illicit liquor is flourishing despite complete prohibition.
A single bench of Justice Purnendu Singh, hearing the anticipatory bail application of Kripa Sahni, remarked that the illegal liquor economy was not only thriving but also endangering the future of the state’s youth. “Despite complete prohibition, a parallel trade in illicit liquor is flourishing in the state. This is not only fueling the illegal economy but also putting the future of the youth at stake,” the court observed.
The bench noted that young people between the ages of 18 and 35 were increasingly falling prey to alcohol addiction. Describing this age group as crucial for the state’s social and economic development, the court said alcohol abuse was adversely affecting their physical, mental and intellectual growth.
The judge further indicated that effective preventive measures appeared to be lacking at the state level. The order expressed concern over the involvement of minors and newly adult individuals in illicit liquor trafficking, suggesting a worrying social trend.
Citing the dangers of spurious liquor, the court referred to the lethal effects of methanol, noting that as little as 5 ml can cause blindness and 10 ml may prove fatal. The state’s failure to effectively implement the prohibition law, it said, was putting citizens’ lives at risk.
The case arose from a seizure in Gopalganj district, where police at Vishambarpur station reportedly recovered 55,800 litres of illicit liquor from a motorcycle said to be registered in the name of the accused. According to the prosecution, the vehicle was found abandoned near Matihania bridge after a raid, with the driver fleeing the scene. The accused was named on the basis of a watchman’s statement.
The defence argued that the applicant was not present at the spot during the seizure and that a co-accused had been driving the vehicle.
Granting anticipatory bail, the court directed that a copy of its order be sent to the Chief Secretary. It also advised the state to take concrete steps towards proper rehabilitation and care of young people, particularly those aged 18 to 35 who are becoming entangled in cases under the prohibition law.
The court emphasised that action must align with the spirit of Article 47 of the Constitution, which directs the state to improve public health and prohibit the consumption of intoxicating drinks harmful to society.
