By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Since 2016, Bihar has enforced a complete ban on liquor, a policy that has sparked considerable debate. Politicians from various factions have voiced differing opinions on its effectiveness, and now political strategist and Jan Suraaj convenor Prashant Kishore has made a significant announcement.
Speaking to journalists in Patna, Kishore declared that, should his government come to power in the state, the liquor ban would be lifted immediately. “The day Jan Suraaj forms the government, the liquor ban will be abolished within one hour. We are not concerned with what Jitan Manjhi ji or other party leaders are saying,” he asserted, referring to opposing views on the matter.
Kishore emphasised that preparations for the upcoming assembly elections are well underway, with many supporters joining the Jan Suraaj movement. He noted the role of the ‘Vichar Manch’, an initiative aimed at spreading Jan Suraaj’s ideology to every village and household in Bihar. For the past two years, the party has been engaging communities across the state to raise awareness about its mission.
This isn’t the first time Kishore has criticised the liquor ban. On 8 August, he pointed out the financial impact it has had on Bihar, estimating a loss of Rs 20,000 crore annually. He also alleged that illegal liquor is sold openly, with the profits benefiting corrupt officials and criminal networks. His stance remains clear: if elected, his government would abolish the ban within an hour.
Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has also been a vocal critic of the policy. According to Manjhi, the liquor ban disproportionately affects the poor, while the wealthy continue to drink with impunity.
