Patna: The debate over Bihar’s prohibition policy has resurfaced following the formation of the new state government, with Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi weighing in on the issue and indicating that a review may be underway under the leadership of the newly appointed chief minister.
Manjhi said it had been only four to five days since Samrat Choudhary assumed office as chief minister, adding that the administration would take time to examine the liquor policy in detail before reaching any conclusion.
“Samrat Choudhary will take a considered decision after evaluating all aspects of the matter,” Manjhi said, suggesting that the government intends to assess both the advantages and shortcomings of the existing framework before making any changes.
While describing prohibition as a “good policy in principle,” Manjhi argued that its implementation in Bihar has been flawed. He said there was a need for a comprehensive review and corrective measures to strengthen enforcement.
Raising concerns over unintended consequences, Manjhi pointed to the production and circulation of spurious alcohol in the state. He said prohibition had led some individuals to manufacture liquor in unsafe and unregulated conditions, sometimes “within two hours,” resulting in adulterated products that pose serious health risks.
He linked such practices to recurring reports of deaths caused by illicit liquor, adding that poorer sections of society were disproportionately affected by the consequences.
Reiterating his stance, Manjhi said the policy required careful reconsideration and significant improvements in implementation to address its current shortcomings.
