Northeast Desk, 28th August: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced on August 27 that his government will review the three-decade-old Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, following extensive consultations with civil society groups, the public, and church organizations.
The NLTP Act, enacted in 1989 to address alcohol-related issues such as domestic violence and public disorder, has come under scrutiny during the current monsoon session of the state assembly. The review was initiated by Advisor Moatoshi Longkumer and supported by Minister Temjen Imna Along and Advisor Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome. Concerns have been raised about the proliferation of spurious liquor despite the prohibition, particularly in areas near the Assam-Nagaland border.
Several assembly members suggested that the state might consider a partial lifting of the prohibition in specific areas, combined with stricter regulations. They argued that the current Act has failed to control illicit liquor distribution effectively.
Conversely, some members opposed any changes, stressing that any amendments should reflect the sentiments of Nagaland’s predominantly Christian population, including church bodies and tribal organizations.
CM Rio acknowledged the Act’s mixed results, noting its relative success in rural areas but challenges in urban regions, including the rise of black markets and associated criminal activity. He emphasized the need for a collective community effort to address the issues arising from the prohibition.
The state government will continue discussions and consultations before making a final decision on potential amendments to the NLTP Act.