In an effort to eradicate illicit liquor activities, the Bihar government’s Excise, Prohibition, and Registration Department is implementing a comprehensive plan. A weekly review meeting, led by Secretary Ajay Yadav, was held on Tuesday, involving district superintendents and check post in-charges, to address the ongoing challenges and strategize future actions.
The meeting emphasized a firm stance against liquor smuggling, directing intensified monitoring and an increase in raid operations. Excise Commissioner Rajnish Kumar Singh called upon districts to initiate actions under the Crime Control Act (CCA), utilize drone-based surveillance for raid operations, and accelerate the arrest of individuals involved in liquor smuggling and consumption.
Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the importance of public awareness and constant vigilance. The Excise Commissioner directed the initiation of awareness campaigns in areas affected by poisonous liquor incidents. He also emphasized the need for special monitoring of illegal liquor sale sites in villages, with specific instructions to avoid harassing Scheduled Castes and underprivileged communities. Prompt action on grievances and suggestions received during women’s dialogues, as well as the completion of liquor destruction within 15 days across all districts, were also mandated.
Certain check post in-charges were criticized for their performance, including those stationed at Funkaaha, Pichulia, Karmanasa, and Mirza Chowki. Warnings for improved performance were issued. Border districts such as Buxar, Gopalganj, and Jamui were also directed to increase their surveillance activities.
District superintendents were instructed to intensify inspections within their respective districts and expedite the seizure of liquor-laden vehicles at check posts. Additionally, the meeting underscored the importance of providing leave to check post in-charges based on adequate staffing. The Excise Commissioner made it clear that any negligence in the campaign against liquor smuggling would not be tolerated.