Purnea (Bihar), Mar 5 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday affirmed that strict action would be taken against liquor traders and consumers as both were on the radar of the government. Addressing a function attended by ‘Jeevika Didis’ (those part of women self-help groups) and locals, Kumar said his government was committed to enforcing the liquor ban strictly in Bihar. The ban was clamped in April, 2016. All measures had been taken by the government to ensure its strict implementation, but a few “elements” were still indulging in liquor ban law violations, he said. The Chief Minister said the state government had convened a high-level review meeting in November last year after the hooch tragedy. Instructions had been issued for taking action against liquor traders and consumers as both were on the radar of the government, he added. “It is strange that despite being aware of the ill effects of liquor consumption, some people are still consuming it “, Kumar said adding that people, particularly women, should remain alert and inform the police if they came across any information regarding liquor ban law violations in their respective areas. The Chief Minister said four helicopters and 24 drones had been pressed into service to keep a strict vigil on liquor ban law violators. The unrelenting drive to enforce the liquor ban strictly would continue, he warned. Kumar said that Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi had also been firmly opposed to liquor consumption. Those who indulge in liquor consumption not only lose their money but also wisdom and intelligence, he said. More KKS SSP
