Former Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has advocated for the adoption of a "Gujarat model of liquor ban" in Bihar, following the recent decision by the Gujarat government to permit alcohol consumption in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), exempting it from the state's prohibition law.
Expressing his views on the matter, Jitan Ram Manjhi urged Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to consider implementing the innovative approach taken by Gujarat regarding alcohol restrictions. He emphasized that such a policy shift could potentially lead to a boost in trade and foreign exchange for Bihar.
Highlighting the economic implications of Bihar's current stance on alcohol, Manjhi noted a consistent decline in revenue and a negative impact on tourism since the imposition of the liquor ban in 2016. He argued that allowing controlled alcohol consumption could have beneficial effects, especially for poor and working-class citizens.
Expressing gratitude to the Gujarat government for its decision, Manjhi envisioned a substantial increase in foreign exchange for Bihar if a similar approach were adopted in the state. He underscored the potential economic advantages that could result from revisiting the current prohibition policy.
Taking a critical stance against Nitish Kumar, Manjhi pointed out the apparent contradiction in Kumar's position, noting that from 2005 to 2010, the Chief Minister had facilitated widespread access to alcohol, only to later oppose its consumption.
In 2016, the Bihar government imposed a comprehensive ban on the sale, purchase, consumption, manufacture, and storage of alcohol across the state, accompanied by stringent fines and punishments for violations.
Drawing attention to the recent development in Gujarat, where the government allowed alcohol consumption at specific establishments within GIFT City, Manjhi highlighted the significance of this decision as the first relaxation in alcohol consumption in Gujarat, which has maintained a dry state status since 1960. The move allows individuals employed in GIFT City and authorized visitors to consume alcoholic beverages in designated areas, with restrictions on the sale of liquor bottles by hotels and restaurants. The development in Gujarat serves as a reference point for Manjhi's advocacy for a reconsideration of Bihar's alcohol policies.
