Special courts likely for Bihar liquor cases

PATNA: Bihar plans to set up special courts in all the state’s 38 districts for trial of the cases relating to liquor to enforce prohibition at ground level, appoint two special public prosecutors (PP) for such courts and make offences related to liquor non-bailable.

State government may place an amendment bill to incorporate the provisions for setting up special courts and appointment of special PPs across the state in the Monsoon session of the state assembly from July 29. On April 5, Bihar became a “dry state” after Nitish Kumar-headed Grand Alliance government’s decision to completely ban the sale and consumption of alcohol, including IMFL, with immediate effect. Sources in the state’s excise department said there is an attempt to plug the loopholes that offenders could take exploit. “Bihar Excise Amendment Act (2016) has already tough provisions to put an effective check on the possession and consumption of liquor.

However, we aim to make it clear that possession of liquor is illegal in the state. There is still confusion over this particular aspect. Under the new bill, this confusion over possession of liquor may be removed,” a source in the state’s excise department said.

This is fallout of a recent case in the Patna High Court where the court ruled that possession of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) is not illegal. Sources said the idea for setting up special courts for offences relating to liquor may work as a better deterrent. “All offences relating to liquor would be made nonbailable.”

The state excise department is also in touch with the civil aviation department to ensure proper checking of luggage at airport through scanners. “Passengers boarding flights for Bihar will not be in position to carry liquor,” the source added.

By Sanjay Singh