The unifying factor

Introduction of the new anti-liquor law has proved to be a unifying factor for the two Brothers Bihari — Lalu and Nitish — who had almost fallen out, even refusing to talk, over Mohammad Shahabuddin. Even RJD leaders were surprised to see Tej Pratap and Tejashwi at the media interaction on October 2 to announce the new law. Earlier, both sons had developed a habit of skipping events where the chief minister was present. “Laluji is the last man who would destabilise the government,” said an RJD minister. “He used the issue to make up with Nitish. Of course it does not mean he justifies the strict prohibition laws.” Even Congress president Ashok Choudhary was seen sitting amicably with Tej Pratap for the first time after his face-off with Lalu. “The allies know that the court will also strike down the new law. Why disturb the government,” said another Congress leader.

Once bitten, twice shy

After K.K. Pathak’s exit as principal secretary, excise and prohibition, the state excise department has become tight-lipped about its activities. Officials now refuse to give details of raids and liquor recoveries. Local journalists are virtually shooed away, but department officials warmly received two foreign lady journalists and took them to the control room. “It's natural that the British should be extended the courtesy,” said a journalist. “The excise department has made use of British era rules, like community fine and arrests without warrant, to frame an anti-liquor law,” said a journalist. The local journalists were, however, not sure if the two lady journalists were from the UK or some other country.

All in the name of Gandhi

While chief minister Nitish Kumar was dedicating another set of draconian laws to Mahatma Gandhi, NDA leaders picked up brooms for a Swachh drive. “Look at the hypocrisy of politicians executing this agenda in the name of Gandhi,” said a senior citizenwho was watching a Union minister struggle with the broom.