In the latest developments, just four days after the promulgation of a sort-of restrictions in the state of Bihar on the first of this month, the Nitish Kumar government on Tuesday decided to impose a complete ban on alcohol in the towns and cities of the state.
The decision comes in after the partial ban declared by the Chief Minister who had banned the sale and consumption of ‘country’ and ‘spiced’ alcohol in rural areas, however, allowing the sale of foreign liquor. But, the decision for a total prohibition came soon after at an urgent Cabinet meeting with the ministers and a lot of brainstorming on the same.
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar
As a consequence, debates have been raised on the matter related to ‘toddy’ drink, as it is being termed by the people, with the decision getting praises and criticisms alike.
Previously, the guidelines established standards to be followed way back in 1991, that included prohibition of sale and consumption of ‘Neera’ (a refreshing drink from palm trees before sunrise) within 50 metres of social institutions like hospital, education organisations, religious places and else.
Chief minister Nitish Kumar said that “Neera” shall be allowed, while ‘toddy’ drink would be barred, in his latest statement to the media. The decision was accepted and gladly welcomed by the former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi, adding that the state government ‘has finally yielded to opposition pressure for complete prohibition.’
Source and picture(s): Various Agencies.
Tags: alcohol ban Bihar Bihar alcohol ban Nitish Kumar Nitish Kumar government
