Tejashwi Promises To Reassess Bihar's Liquor Ban If 'Mahagathbandhan' Wins
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Synopsis
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav pledges to amend Bihar's liquor ban and exclude toddy if the Grand Alliance wins the elections. He criticizes the current prohibition policy, citing its failures and the need for reform.
Key Takeaways
- Tejashwi Yadav vows to revisit Bihar's liquor ban.
- Toddy will be exempt from the ban if elected.
- Current prohibition policy criticized for its ineffectiveness.
- Over 2,000 deaths attributed to toxic liquor.
- Promise to establish a youth commission and prioritize local job seekers.
Patna, March 6 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding Bihar's liquor ban, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has made a significant election commitment to amend the current legislation and restore the regulations that were in place before 2016, should the Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan) secure victory in the upcoming elections.
He mentioned that toddy would be exempt from the liquor ban, although he did not clarify whether the ban itself would be lifted.
Yadav criticized the existing prohibition strategy, asserting that it has been a complete failure. He pointed out that the policy has resulted in the arrest of 18 individuals every hour in Bihar, along with over 2,000 fatalities attributed to toxic liquor and substantial economic setbacks for the state.
“If given the chance to lead, toddy (fermented palm sap) will be removed from the liquor ban as it serves as a vital source of income for many people in Bihar,” Yadav stated.
“The Patna High Court has condemned the prohibition policy, indicating that the law has strayed from its intended purpose and is being misused by law enforcement for oppression. Additionally, the government has failed to provide aid to families affected by those who died from counterfeit liquor,” Yadav expressed.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has staunchly defended the prohibition since its inception in 2016, asserting that it has positive effects on women and families. However, opposition factions contend that the ban has fostered a thriving black market and has become a tool for police harassment.
The liquor ban continues to be a pivotal issue in every Bihar Assembly election. By advocating for the repeal of the current law, Tejashwi is appealing to voters who are disillusioned by the complications arising from the prohibition.
As tensions escalate between RJD and Congress within the Mahagathbandhan, Tejashwi Yadav has sharply responded to Congress' assertion that Rahul Gandhi will determine the Chief Minister candidate following the elections.
Tejashwi dismissed Congress’ statement, claiming: "Neither I nor they will determine the CM. The citizens of Bihar will make that decision,” he remarked.
Congress leaders have been suggesting the possibility of contesting elections independently, which has created strain within the alliance.
The influence of Rahul Gandhi over seat distribution and leadership has been questioned by the RJD.
The RJD is the leading party in the Grand Alliance, while Congress is vying for a more significant role, leading to friction.
Tejashwi’s leadership is firmly established within the RJD, but Congress’ demands may complicate negotiations. A fractured Mahagathbandhan could diminish its prospects against the BJP-JDU coalition.
Tejashwi Yadav also mentioned his intention to establish the youth commission within a month if the RJD-Mahagathbandhan secures power in Bihar following the 2025 assembly elections.
“We will also implement a domicile policy in Bihar to ensure that the local youth receive priority in government employment,” Yadav promised, highlighting his commitment to create job opportunities in the state.
