Are the Poor Being Targeted While Smugglers Go Free? Manjhi Questions Bihar’s Prohibition Policy
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi underscores the critical flaws in Bihar's prohibition enforcement, highlighting the injustice faced by the poor while smugglers evade penalties. His remarks call for a reevaluation of the policy to protect vulnerable communities and ensure fair enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- Jitan Ram Manjhi questions the enforcement of Bihar's prohibition policy.
- He emphasizes that the poor are unjustly targeted.
- Liquor smugglers operate without consequences.
- Manjhi calls for a review of the prohibition law.
- The need for fair treatment in enforcement is critical.
Patna, Dec 9 (NationPress) Union Minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) leader Jitan Ram Manjhi has again voiced grave concerns regarding the execution of Bihar's prohibition policy. He remarked that while prohibition is advantageous for society, its flawed enforcement is leading to significant injustices. Manjhi pointed out that the poor are being disproportionately targeted while liquor smugglers remain unpunished.
At his urging, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reviewed the prohibition law for the third time, recognizing the discrepancies in its application.
“Tons of liquor are being smuggled, yet the smugglers evade capture. In contrast, poor laborers who consume small amounts of alcohol for relief are subjected to breath tests and incarceration. This is unacceptable,” Manjhi stated during a media interaction in Gaya on Tuesday.
He contended that prohibition should not be enforced harshly against the impoverished.
“If an individual carries alcohol for medicinal purposes for a family member, they should not face arrest,” he said, asserting that the policy is being misapplied against vulnerable communities.
Manjhi also discussed which types of liquor he believes to be less harmful.
He noted that Mahua liquor, made traditionally from natural herbs and ingredients over several days, was once deemed beneficial.
“Previously, Mahua liquor required eight days for preparation. Today, it can be made in just two hours, mixed with harmful substances such as sal ammoniac and urea. The poor consume this and severely damage their health,” he elaborated.
The Union Minister accused the elite of escaping the repercussions of prohibition.
“Doctors, MLAs, engineers, and officials indulge in expensive liquor, ordering bottles worth ₹20,000–₹50,000 and drinking after 10 PM. There is a lack of transparency in enforcement. Major smugglers should be apprehended, yet this is not occurring,” he commented.
He further claimed that liquor smugglers are not only operating freely but are also participating in elections.
Manjhi recounted an incident from his village: “A police station is located in my village, and a substantial shipment of liquor was discovered right next to it. This is astonishing. Will Nitish Kumar himself intervene to stop this?”
He insisted that despite being part of the government, he will continue to advocate for the truth.
“A friend does not provide incorrect guidance. I am that friend. I reflect the reality back to the government,” he stated.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the discrepancies in the enforcement of prohibition laws in Bihar. While the intention behind prohibition is to curb alcohol consumption, the execution often leads to unjust consequences for the marginalized. The concerns raised by Manjhi highlight the necessity for a balanced approach that ensures both public safety and fairness.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jitan Ram Manjhi's stance on Bihar's prohibition policy?
Manjhi believes that while prohibition is beneficial, its enforcement disproportionately targets the poor, allowing smugglers to evade justice.
What examples did Manjhi provide regarding the enforcement of the prohibition law?
He highlighted that liquor smugglers operate freely, while poor laborers consuming small amounts for relief are arrested.
What does Manjhi suggest about the enforcement of prohibition?
He suggests that the enforcement should not be harsh on the poor and that the policy is often misused against vulnerable communities.
