Prashant Kishor vows to end 'Bihar Liquor Ban' within one hour if elected
Ahead of his party's foundation day on October 2, Jan Suraj chief Prashant Kishor vowed to scrap the liquor ban in Bihar within an hour if elected to power.Kishor described the existing liquor prohibition as a "sham" and highlighted that it has resulted in a loss of approximately ₹20,000 crore in excise revenue for the state.
Image credit:- thehindu
Ahead of the foundation day of his political party, Jan Suraj, on October 2, 2024, Prashant Kishor made a bold promise to the people of Bihar: he vowed to end the state's liquor ban within one hour if his party comes to power. Speaking to ANI on September 15, Kishor criticized the existing prohibition law, labeling it a "sham" and asserting that it has led to significant losses in revenue for the state.
Kishor highlighted that the liquor ban, which has been in effect since 2016 under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has resulted in an estimated loss of ₹20,000 crore in excise revenue annually. He pointed out that the ban has not only failed to curb alcohol consumption but has also fostered illegal home deliveries and a thriving black market for liquor, benefiting corrupt officials and the liquor mafia.
"The prohibition law is nothing but a dhakosla (sham)," Kishor stated, emphasizing the need for a more effective approach to the issue.
When asked about preparations for the upcoming foundation day, Kishor expressed confidence, stating, "There is no need for any special preparation for the second. We have been preparing for the last two years." His commitment to abolishing the liquor ban reflects his broader political strategy, which aims to address the concerns of various voter demographics, including women, while also challenging the status quo.
Kishor's remarks come amid a heated political climate in Bihar, where he has been vocal against both Nitish Kumar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. He accused both leaders of failing the state and urged them to step aside for new leadership. Kishor remarked, "This issue is between Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav, and it doesn't matter who apologized with folded hands to whom; both have caused damage to Bihar."
The Jan Suraj party plans to contest all 243 seats in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, signaling Kishor's ambition to make a significant impact in the state's political landscape. He believes in a "politics of merit" and is unafraid to voice his opposition to the liquor ban, despite the potential backlash from women voters who initially supported the prohibition.
As the political landscape in Bihar continues to evolve, Kishor's pledge to end the liquor ban could resonate with many voters who are frustrated with the current administration's policies and the ongoing challenges related to illegal alcohol trade. His party's foundation day on October 2 will mark a significant step in his political journey and the future of Bihar.
