PATNA: The state government in the eastern Indian state of Bihar has now cancelled a special licence to churches to manufacture sacramental wine for the purpose of blessing during prayers.
The order comes three months after the government headed by chief minister Nitish Kumar imposed total prohibition in Bihar in April this year.
- Sponsored -
Authorities said initially Xavier’s Teachers Training Institute at Digha in Patna had been granted the licence to manufacture wine for religious purposes but now this order has been withdrawn.
The order comes after strong objections raised by some political parties and social activities who questioned the government’s intention.
A Church official said now they would be using sacramental juice instead of wine for the purpose of blessings during prayers.
The state government imposed total prohibition in Bihar April this year succumbing to continuing demands from the female class.
Under the new excise law, even keeping liquor at home has been made a punishable offence.
Comments are closed.