NCAER survey on the impact of liquor ban
This question arises because a central agency, the National Council of Applied Economics and Research (NCAER), has conducted a study. This study states that prohibition has caused a lot of harm in Bihar, while its benefits are very less. NCAER says that prohibition was publicized in such a way that it has reduced domestic violence and crimes against women, but in reality it is not so. According to the survey, an increase in crime against women has been seen in recent times. Along with this, a huge figure of financial loss to the government has also been presented. Revenue is decreasing due to liquor ban and the expenditure incurred in implementing this law is also very high.
Political reactions and future prospects
After this survey, discussion has started whether the BJP government of Bihar can end the liquor ban implemented by Nitish Kumar. However, Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary has denied this possibility. Still, the central agency's survey cannot be ignored. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal U has raised this issue prominently. Party's chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar has alleged that this survey has been conducted by liquor companies. It is clear that JDU has decided to ensure that prohibition is not allowed to end. The government will have to take decisions keeping in mind the financial loss and political profit and loss. If Janata Dal U does not agree on this issue, the government will not take any initiative in this matter.