Union Minister Paswan Advocates for the Repeal of Toddy Ban in Bihar
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Synopsis
Union Minister Chirag Paswan has called for the repeal of the toddy ban in Bihar, emphasizing it as a natural product. His remarks follow RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's promise to lift the ban if elected in 2025, highlighting the economic struggles of the Pasi community.
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister Chirag Paswan calls for lifting the toddy ban in Bihar.
- Tejashwi Yadav promises to repeal the ban if RJD wins in 2025.
- The toddy issue could be a crucial electoral topic.
- Mass arrests under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act have predominantly affected Dalits.
- Paswan criticizes opposition parties for divisive politics.
Patna, March 7 (NationPress) Union Minister Chirag Paswan has advocated for the repeal of the toddy ban in Bihar, asserting that it is a natural product and should not be classified as alcohol.
He emphasized that toddy and Neera should not fall under the definition of alcohol.
His comments follow Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav's commitment that "should his party form the government in 2025, the prohibition on toddy sales would be revoked, highlighting the economic struggles faced by the Pasi community."
"If the RJD assumes power in 2025, the restriction on toddy will be lifted. The Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act 2016 has resulted in mass incarcerations, with 95 percent of those imprisoned being Dalits and individuals from backward classes," Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly Yadav stated.
"This law has been used to target the impoverished, particularly Dalits and the Pasi community. The revival of the toddy business is essential for their survival," Tejashwi remarked.
The Pasi (Paswan) community, historically supportive of the late Ram Vilas Paswan, now rallies behind his son Chirag Paswan.
By championing the lifting of the toddy ban, Tejashwi is strategically positioning himself to attract their support in the upcoming 2025 elections.
Union Minister Paswan's support indicates that the toddy issue could become a significant electoral issue in Bihar.
During a media interaction at a wedding ceremony in Hajipur on Thursday evening, the Union Minister criticized opposition parties, accusing them of manipulating communal sentiments for political purposes.
In light of the Aurangzeb controversy, Union Minister Paswan condemned the opposition for their "appeasement and divisive politics."
"History demonstrates that Aurangzeb did not maintain good relations with his family. It is well-known what transpired during his reign and the policies he implemented," Paswan stated.
"RJD, SP, and Congress exclusively safeguard the interests of one religious group while neglecting others. Their secularism is selective and only serves their political ambitions," Paswan remarked.
"If someone shows respect towards the beliefs of the majority Hindu community, they are quickly branded as communal. Meanwhile, these parties continue their politics of appeasement without accountability," he added.
Nevertheless, Union Minister Paswan distanced himself from JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar's comments regarding Aurangzeb.
When questioned about Anwar's endorsement of the SP leader's statements, Paswan dismissed it, asserting: "It does not matter who supports these comments. Any educated individual familiar with history cannot endorse such views."
