Muzaffarpur: Muzaffarpur district magistrate (DM) Dharmendra Kumar has recommended strong action against Paroo block development officer (BDO) Ratnesh Kumar for violating dry law in the state.

Dreaded fugitive Tulsi Rai was caught red-handed consuming liquor at the BDO's official residence on January 15. The excise department had sent the fugitive to jail. Now, the DM has written to the secretary, rural development department, seeking stern action against the BDO for enabling gangsters to drink liquor at his house. The BDO has proceeded on a long leave.

When the matter came to the DM's notice, he sought the district prosecution officer's opinion. The officer blamed the BDO for lapses.

DM Dharmendra Kumar has directed senior superintendent of police (SSP) Vivek Kumar to frame charges against the BDO. Sub-divisional police officer Shankar Jha accused him of violating dry laws.

Jha said the BDO's name will be incorporated in the FIR. Thereafter, the police will launch a hunt and arrest him. The DM said he has initiated departmental proceeding against him. Such proceedings can now be initiated against officers and employees if they are found or reported to be violating provisions of the prohibition policy, the DM said.