Bihar hooch tragedy victims can’t be paid compensation, says BJP neta

PATNA: Even as the entire winter session of the state assembly remained disrupted over the demand by the opposition to grant compensation to the families of Saran hooch victims, former BJP legislator and party’s state vice-president Rajib Ranjan said “such demand would set a wrong precedent and encourage the violators of law to commit more crimes”.


Ranjan said although it’s very unfortunate that several people died after consuming spurious liquor in the state and the perpetrators of the crime deserve stern punishment, yet it is also a fact that the state government has enforced total prohibition under which drinking liquor remains a “criminal act”. “In such a situation, how can someone knowingly breaking the law be compensated,” Ranjan said in a press statement.

Ranjan, who also happens to be the state media in-charge of BJP, said deaths due to spurious liquor was not a new thing in the state and checking such incidents was one of the prime objectives of imposing total prohibition in Bihar.

“Despite that, if someone drinks liquor, it must be construed as a criminal act. So, if compensation is given in this matter today, tomorrow the criminals indulging in heinous acts like murder and robberies too will start demanding compensation on the same ground,” the BJP leader explained.

Ranjan said those demanding compensation in such cases should understand that their demand is unjustified. However, he said the government should take care of the victims’ kin and make arrangements for their livelihood.


Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.