Will Toddies Be Exempt from Liquor Ban if the INDIA Bloc Wins in Bihar?
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Synopsis
Tejashwi Yadav has pledged to lift the liquor ban on toddy if the INDIA Bloc wins the Bihar elections. This announcement aims to rally support from the Pasi community, highlighting the importance of traditional trades. Will this promise change Bihar's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Tejashwi Yadav promises to lift the ban on toddy if elected.
- Focus on supporting the Pasi community and traditional trades.
- Liquor prohibition has been in effect since April 2016.
- Opposition raises concerns over the black market.
- Political strategies may shift voter dynamics.
Patna, April 27 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in Bihar, Tejashwi Yadav, emphasized on Sunday that if the INDIA Bloc secures victory in the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections, toddy will be removed from the liquor prohibition law.
While addressing the 'Mahajutan' program for toddy businessmen at Sri Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna, he stated, “Should the INDIA Bloc form the government, we will lift the ban on toddy and dismiss all cases against its traders.” This initiative aims to garner support from the Pasi community, which has historically favored the Lok Janshakti Party led by Chirag Paswan.
Tejashwi also declared that toddy would be recognized with industry status in Bihar, which he believes will enhance the economic standing of those involved in this trade.
He reminisced that during the previous Grand Alliance government, he and Lalu Prasad Yadav had pushed for the removal of toddy from the prohibition law, but the initiative was thwarted by the stubbornness of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
“This time, we will undoubtedly exempt toddy from the liquor ban if the INDIA Bloc takes charge,” Tejashwi assured the attendees.
Earlier this year, on March 6, Tejashwi had reiterated the necessity of excluding toddy from the liquor ban, highlighting its significance as a traditional occupation for various communities in Bihar.
This strategy is perceived as an effort by the RJD to earn the trust of the Pasi community, a vital group among the Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) in Bihar's political landscape.
Liquor prohibition has been in effect in Bihar since April 2016, and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has consistently defended this policy, asserting that it benefits families and women.
However, opposition parties contend that the ban has fostered a thriving black market and has become a means for police to exploit the underprivileged in the state.
Point of View
Tejashwi Yadav's commitment to exclude toddy from the liquor ban law signifies a strategic approach to win over the Pasi community ahead of the elections. However, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of the liquor ban and the socio-economic implications for communities involved in traditional trades. As the political landscape evolves, the RJD's tactics may redefine voter dynamics in Bihar.
NationPress
24/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of toddy in Bihar?
Toddy is a traditional beverage and an important source of livelihood for certain communities in Bihar, particularly the Pasi community.
What is the current status of liquor prohibition in Bihar?
Liquor has been banned in Bihar since April 2016, with the government claiming it benefits families and women.
What are the implications of lifting the ban on toddy?
Exempting toddy from the ban could boost the local economy and support traditional occupations while addressing the needs of the Pasi community.
How have opposition parties responded to the liquor ban?
Opposition parties argue that the ban has led to a thriving black market and has been misused by the police to harass the poor.
Who are the key political figures in this context?
Key figures include Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav, and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, each playing significant roles in the liquor ban debate.
