The Jan Suraaj Party has made a significant pledge: if they come to power in Bihar, they will overturn the state’s controversial ban on alcohol sales and consumption. This bold promise, reiterated by the party on Sunday, October 12, 2025, aims to unlock substantial economic opportunities for the state.
The party estimates that repealing the prohibition would generate an impressive revenue surplus of approximately ₹28,000 crore. This newfound financial flexibility would then be strategically used to secure massive developmental loans, potentially ranging from ₹5 lakh crore to ₹6 lakh crore, from influential international bodies such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Udai Singh, the national president of the Jan Suraaj Party, emphasized this vision while welcoming Kumar Saurav, a former leader of the LJV (RV) party, into their ranks. Singh stated, "Our consistent stand has been that liquor prohibition in the state will be abolished immediately upon our ascent to power. The state’s projected ₹28,000 crore revenue gain from this decision will be pivotal in attracting significant loans from the World Bank and IMF." He highlighted Saurav’s impressive background in finance and law, noting his previous role as country head of securitization at a private bank. "We plan to harness his expertise to facilitate these crucial international loans, using the state’s revitalized revenue stream," Singh added.
This isn’t a new stance for the party. Prashant Kishor, the renowned poll strategist who transitioned into politics and founded Jan Suraaj, has previously vowed to scrap the liquor ban in Bihar within an hour of his party forming the government.
Bihar’s strict prohibition on alcohol sales and consumption was originally enacted by the Nitish Kumar government in April 2016.
Upon officially joining the Jan Suraaj Party, Kumar Saurav clarified his motivation. He assured reporters that his departure from the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) was not due to any disagreements with its chief, Chirag Paswan. Instead, Saurav expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Prashant Kishor, whom he admires for his unwavering dedication to the progress and well-being of Bihar and its citizens.