Patna: The mukhiya of Bakour panchayat in Supaul district was arrested by the excise department on Wednesday after a breathalyser test confirmed alcohol consumption during a routine enforcement drive. The accused, identified as Nandan Kumar Pandit, was detained near Bakour Chowk during a checking campaign against liquor consumption and illegal liquor trade.According to excise officials, a team conducting routine checks noticed suspicious activity and screened several people. Pandit was among those tested, and the breathalyser detected alcohol consumption.During questioning, the mukhiya allegedly told officials that he was rushing home as his wife was scheduled to undergo surgery. He claimed that he met some acquaintances on the way and consumed liquor offered by them.Following his arrest, Pandit underwent a medical examination and was produced before a court after completion of legal formalities under Bihar’s Prohibition Law.Excise superintendent Ashok Kumar said the department regularly conducts drives against liquor consumption and sale. “During questioning, officials learnt that the arrested man was an elected representative. His identity and position were subsequently verified, confirming that he is the serving mukhiya of Bakour panchayat,” he said.Officials said action was taken as the breathalyser test allegedly confirmed alcohol consumption, irrespective of the accused’s status as an elected representative.The excise department said its campaign against liquor consumption and illegal liquor trade would continue and violators would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
