Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday asked his UP counterpart Akhilesh Yadav to follow the legacy of Ram Manohar lohia and impose a total ban on sale and consumption of alcohol in the State. He was speaking at a conference organised by Kisan Manch here on Sunday.
“If you claim to be a follower of great socialist ideologue lohia then you should impose total ban of alcohol in UP,’’ said Nitish Kumar.
“Akhileshji, do not panick of losing revenue. Initially, there may be obstacles in imposing the ban but ultimately the people will support you for the noble cause. Abandon the business of alcohol and join the traditional ethical and moral business of dairy,’’ advised the Bihar CM.
Referring to the ban in Bihar, Nitish said, “It has created huge ripples across the nation and the people of UP are curious to know that if Bihar can do it why can’t the same be done by the UP Government.
Defending his Government’s decision on prohibition, Nitish said, “We are working within the framework of the Constitution and there should be no effort from any side to subvert the policy.’’
To curb liquor smuggling to Bihar from UP, Kumar said, “The UP Government should amend its Excise policy to ensure that there are no liquor shops within a 5 km radius of UP-Bihar border.’’
Adopting a tough stance against smuggling of liquor into Bihar, Kumar said, “The Bihar Government has framed stringent law to nab those coming to UP for having their quota of spirits. Ab yeh nahi chalne wala hai (this can no longer be allowed to go on).’’
Meanwhile, members of lucknow liquor Association waved black flags as Kumar entourage entered the city from the airport.