Historic Day, Says Nitish Kumar, As Bihar Lawmakers Say 'We Won't Drink'

Patna: It's a March version of a new year resolution - the 243 state legislators in Bihar today formally declared their intent to "stay away from alcohol" with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar stating Bihar's intro to prohibition has launched, just as he promised in his election campaign last year.

"It's a historic day," said the Chief Minister, "It's a clear message that everyone is dedicated to making prohibition work."

Starting Friday, a new law will apply that provides a maximum sentence of the death penalty for those who are found making or selling home-made liquor that kills consumers. If someone is left seriously sick, a life sentence could apply for those who made or traded the toxic alcohol.

Only Gujarat, which does not allow any alcohol, has a similar law.

"They (the government) should impose total prohibition soon...We wanted all kinds of alcohol to be banned," said senior BJP leader Sushil Modi.

The Chief Minister has said that in Phase 1 of prohibition, all shops selling country liquor in rural areas will be shut down on Friday. In cities like Patna and Gaya, alcohol will be available, but only at government-run outlets.

Also anyone found drinking in a public place - including in Patna - could face between five and eight years in prison.

Phase 2 - when alcohol is completely banned - is meant to be introduced just six months later.