The Nitish Kumar government tabled the Bihar Prohibition and Excise (Amendment) Bill in the Assembly on Wednesday, paving the way for the easing of the draconian anti-liquor laws in the state.

The move comes in the wake of sharp criticism of the state government following a spate of hooch tragedies that has killed 206 since 2021.

Prohibition, excise and registration minister Sunil Kumar tabled the bill in the Legislative Assembly and Council in the presence of the chief minister. It was passed by a voice vote in both Houses and is expected to come into effect after the governor’s approval and its notification in the state gazette.

The amendment proposes to release people caught consuming liquor or under its influence on the payment of a fine stipulated by the government from time to time. Those who are unable to pay it will be handed a simple imprisonment of one month.

Executive magistrates appointed by the government (in consultation with Patna High Court) will oversee the release of people caught drunk or consuming liquor.

Such cases will not go to the special prohibition courts established in the state. This will help unburden the judiciary in Bihar.

The amendment also removes the provision of “immediate arrest” of habitual or notorious offenders under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016. Earlier, people could be handed a jail term of up to 10 years for consuming liquor.

Vehicles and premises seized for flouting prohibition will also be released upon the collection of a fine.

The amended law will be applicable to pending cases with retrospective effect. This will help a large number of people currently in jail across the state secure release.