With the Bihar Assembly elections of 2025 looming on the horizon, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's flagship prohibition policy has emerged as a central talking point that could significantly influence voter sentiment. The controversial liquor ban, implemented in 2016, is facing renewed scrutiny from both political opponents and citizens across the state.
The Political Divide Over Prohibition
The opposition, led by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, has launched a vigorous campaign against what they term the "failed experiment" of prohibition. Yadav has been particularly vocal during his ongoing Jan Vishwas Yatra, highlighting the policy's unintended consequences and questioning its effectiveness.
"The prohibition policy has created a massive black market for alcohol while failing to achieve its intended social benefits," Yadav stated during recent public addresses. His criticism reflects growing concerns about the policy's implementation and impact.
Ground Realities and Public Sentiment
On the ground, the prohibition law has produced mixed results. While supporters argue it has reduced domestic violence and improved household finances in many families, critics point to several significant challenges:
- Rise in illicit liquor trade and organized crime
- Allegations of selective enforcement and corruption
- Economic impact on state revenue and hospitality industry
- Burden on the already strained judicial system
Government's Defense and Electoral Strategy
The ruling JD(U)-BJP alliance continues to defend the prohibition policy as a progressive social reform measure. Senior BJP leader and former deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi has emphasized the government's commitment to the policy despite acknowledging implementation challenges.
Political analysts suggest that while the prohibition issue energizes Kumar's traditional support base of women voters, it has alienated certain sections of society who view the restrictions as excessive. The upcoming elections will serve as a crucial referendum on this polarizing policy.
Beyond Prohibition: The Larger Electoral Landscape
While prohibition dominates current political discourse, other significant issues are expected to influence the 2025 elections. Employment generation, infrastructure development, education reforms, and agricultural policies remain key concerns for Bihar's electorate.
The political battle lines are clearly drawn, with prohibition serving as both a symbolic and substantive issue that reflects broader ideological differences between the ruling alliance and opposition parties.
As election campaigns intensify in the coming months, the prohibition debate is likely to remain at the forefront, potentially determining the political fate of key leaders and shaping Bihar's governance direction for the next five years.
