The liquor prohibition law, implemented in Bihar since 2016, is now stirring political debates in the state. Not only the opposition but also leaders of the ruling coalition are demanding a review of the law, increasing pressure on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to decide whether the government will stick to its stance or enforce the law more strictly.

Former Chief Minister and Legislative Council member Rabri Devi told the Assembly, “There is no concept of law and order in the state. Liquor is available everywhere, and illegal alcohol is entering Bihar through the borders.”

The opposition, led by Rabri Devi, staged protests and raised slogans against the government inside the Assembly.

RJD legislators highlighted the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state. MLA Ranvijay Sahu said, “Murders and rape cases are increasing continuously in Patna. Criminals are emboldened while the government remains silent.” A Congress legislator also demanded blood tests of lawmakers to assess the effectiveness of the prohibition.

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi criticized the ban, stating that alcohol is still easily accessible through “home delivery.” RLM MLA Madhav Anand and BJP MLA Vinay Bihari raised calls in the Assembly for a review of the prohibition law. While some ministers maintain that the law itself does not need changes, they emphasized that its implementation requires improvement.

The liquor ban was intended to reduce domestic violence and road accidents. However, reports indicate that the illegal alcohol trade is growing, causing significant revenue losses for the state. Police seize millions of liters of alcohol every month, reflecting the high demand in the black market.

Amid pressure from NDA allies and the opposition, the government is expected either to enforce the law more strictly or introduce partial amendments. A complete repeal of the ban seems unlikely, but new rules or exemptions may be considered.

In Bihar, the liquor ban has evolved from a social issue into a political battleground, testing both governance and coalition dynamics. With the upcoming budget session and the Holi festival approaching, the issue is expected to intensify further.