The Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act is a legislative measure rooted in the collective conscientious conviction of the spiritual leadership, civil society, and lawmakers of Nagaland. Its foundation is not just legal but deeply moral, informed by biblical principles and a commitment to socio-moral deliverance and economic salvation. The issue of prohibition is intrinsically linked to the preservation and promotion of morality, dignity, and the inherent value of human life.
Who is Responsible for the Failure of the Act?
The failure of the NLTP Act cannot be attributed to a single entity; rather, it is a collective shortcoming. While the law exists, enforcement has been lax, and societal commitment has wavered. Many talk against the consumption of alcohol, yet few make concerted efforts to eradicate it from their communities. There are numerous better substitutes for alcohol, yet the public's curiosity is piqued precisely because of the prohibition. The Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of God, yet this sacredness is often overlooked. Legally, the responsibility for prohibition lies with the government, but in practice, it is a shared duty. Just as children mirror their parents' actions, the public follows the lead of their leaders. If everyone took ownership of maintaining the sanctity of our land, the prohibition could have succeeded. Instead, liquor has become a symbol of curiosity rather than a substance to be shunned.
Theories of Mechanism
As debates about the NLTP Act's potential relaxation continue, various suggestions and mechanisms have been proposed. These include restricting and limiting liquor shops, issuing adult licenses, regulating sale times, offering counseling and psycho-education, and promoting disciplined drinking. Some have even suggested allowing alcohol sales on medical grounds or keeping it away from educational environments. However, these theories may prove impractical when faced with the reality of widespread alcohol availability. Once the floodgates are open, it will be difficult to control the flow.
Calculating the Scenario of Lifting the NLTP Act
It is crucial to consider the realistic and adverse effects that lifting the NLTP Act could have on Nagaland's future. The consequences would be far-reaching, penetrating every aspect of social life. Imagine the following scenarios:
1. Streets flooded with alcohol: Public spaces could become overrun with intoxicated individuals, leading to increased public disturbances and a decline in social order.
2. Academic performance plummeting: Students from broken homes, exacerbated by alcohol-related issues, may struggle in school, leading to a decline in educational outcomes.
3. Corrupt leadership: The integrity of our leaders and bureaucrats could be compromised, affecting public dealings and governance.
4. Overburdened hospitals: Health centers might see a surge in alcohol-related casualties, straining already limited medical resources.
5. Unsafe public transportation: Drivers and operators under the influence could lead to more accidents, endangering lives.
6. Increased vulnerability of women and children: The safety of women and children in public spaces could be severely compromised.
7. Youth fragmentation: Alcohol could lead to a breakdown in the behavior and conduct of the younger generation, fostering a culture of irresponsibility.
8. Deterioration of public spaces: Hotels, restaurants, and other public places could see a decline in atmosphere and quality.
9. Crowded police stations: With the rise in alcohol-related crimes, police lockups could become overcrowded.
10. Diverted medical attention: Doctors and nurses might have to focus more on alcohol-related issues, diverting attention from other critical health concerns.
11. Disruption of public celebrations: Festive occasions, such as December 24-25 and January 1, could become marred by alcohol-fueled disturbances.
12. Undermined political and patriotic spirit: The pulse of our political aspirations and patriotism could be dulled under the influence of alcohol.
The Advantages of Maintaining the NLTP Act
The NLTP Act is a marker of Nagaland's identity as a predominantly Christian state, where the moral fabric is held in high regard. The Act serves as a legal acknowledgment of alcohol's role as a root cause of social evils. It is a safeguard for life—both physical and spiritual—valuing human well-being over potential revenue from alcohol sales. As stated in Luke 9:25, "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?" The Act ensures that we do not face the irreversible consequences of societal decay that may follow the relaxation of the prohibition.
Providing a sentinel in the form of the NLTP Act is far better than setting a deadfall or deathtrap for our society. The concern for the well-being of future generations is a shared responsibility among right-thinking individuals. The best legacy the current generation can leave is one of morality and human values. Integrity, honesty, and the quality of life in Nagaland could be buried with the relaxation of this Act. A "cool brain, settled mind, mature temperament, and the raising of talented youth" are crucial for the development of Nagaland. The relaxation of the NLTP Act threatens to undermine these qualities.
Final Thoughts
Nagaland stands to lose nothing if alcohol is eradicated from the land; on the contrary, the state will gain what God has in store for His faithful followers. We all desire a land free from turmoil, agitation, violence, and disrespect. A peaceful society is one where institutions such as families, churches, schools, social setups, workplaces, and government facilities are free from the infection of mental disorder and disease caused by alcohol abuse.
As a democratic society, the people of Nagaland deserve to know if the proposal to relax the NLTP Act, scheduled for discussion on August 27 in the Nagaland Assembly, reflects the majority consensus or is being driven by a minority from Dimapur Naga Council. In the final analysis, the people of Nagaland must choose what will save their youth—morality, dignity, sanctity, and human values, or revenue from liquor and the pursuit of business interests.
God bless Nagaland!
Christian Forum Dimapur:
Rev.Moses Murry (Chairman CFD and treasure NJCF)
Rev.Dr.P.Dozo (Advisor CFD)
Rev.Dr.N.Paphino (Advisor CFD and
Vice president NJCF)
Fr.C.P.Anto (Sec. CFD)
