Bihar liquor ban debate intensifies following NCAER report

A research report by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) has sparked political debate in Bihar regarding the state's total prohibition on alcohol. The study recommends ending the ban and instead implementing controlled alcohol sales to restore the excise tax system.

According to the report, lifting the prohibition could increase the state's own revenue by approximately 14 to 15 percent. The study also highlights challenges stemming from the current ban, including illegal smuggling, the use of other intoxicants, and difficulties in effective law enforcement.

While the report suggests policy changes, the ruling coalition has not reached a consensus. The Janata Dal (United) has dismissed questions regarding the review or removal of the ban, which has been a key part of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's social reform agenda since its implementation in April 2016. Opposition leaders and some members of the ruling alliance have raised concerns over the effectiveness of the current law and the prevalence of smuggling across state borders.