Bihar’s liquor ban has entered its tenth year, but the policy faces fresh questions. A recent NCAER study has recommended ending complete prohibition in the state. The study says the ban has caused major revenue losses. It also says prohibition has failed to reduce crimes against women. However, the BJP-led NDA may find it difficult to reverse the policy. Political and social concerns could slow down any decision.
Bihar introduced prohibition in April 2016 under former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The move aimed to reduce alcohol consumption and protect women and families. However, illegal liquor sales have continued across the state. The ban has also created a parallel black market, according to political leaders. Meanwhile, people have turned to alternative intoxicants in some areas.
NCAER report questions Bihar liquor ban as BJP weighs revenue gains and political risks.
The NCAER study has given the Opposition fresh ammunition. RJD leaders have called the findings proof of policy failure. However, the party still supports the liquor ban. RJD spokesperson Subodh Kumar Mehta said the government failed to enforce the policy effectively. He also warned about the growth of an illegal liquor economy.
Meanwhile, NDA allies have rejected calls for an immediate rollback. Union Minister Chirag Paswan said Bihar needs more revenue. However, he opposed lifting the liquor ban for that reason. HAM(S) chief Jitan Ram Manjhi supported stricter enforcement. He suggested that Bihar should follow Gujarat’s prohibition model. JD(U) MP Devesh Chandra Thakur, however, called for a review.
The BJP also sees possible economic benefits from reopening liquor sales. Alcohol taxes could provide significant revenue for Bihar. The hospitality sector could also gain from a policy change. However, BJP leaders remain cautious about the political impact. Nitish Kumar remains closely associated with Bihar’s prohibition policy. Therefore, the BJP may avoid any sudden decision.
For now, Bihar’s liquor ban appears unlikely to end quickly. The government may instead examine stricter enforcement or limited changes. At the same time, the revenue debate will continue to grow. The NCAER report has reopened an issue that the NDA cannot ignore. However, political sensitivities could keep the Bihar liquor ban in place for longer.
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