Dimapur, July 3 (MExN): The All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) has barred its former president, Katho P Awomi, from all union activities following his alleged involvement in a vandalism incident at a bar in Dimapur. It also demanded immediate closure of all establishments selling liquor in violation of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989.
The union in a statement issued by its Media Cell said that Awomi, who once held a “position of trust and responsibility” shall not “be invited, associated with, or engaged in any programme, activity or official function of ANCSU in any capacity, until such time as the matter is conclusively resolved through due process of law.”
“The ANCSU unequivocally condemn the act and expresses its profound concern that such reports have adversely affected the image, credibility and legacy of the Union,” it stated, adding that any conduct inconsistent with the principles of integrity, discipline and accountability expected of student leaders inevitably reflects upon the union he once represented.
Reiterating that its stand is guided not by prejudice against any individual or organisation but by its commitment to ethical leadership and welfare of the student community, the ANCSU said the decision against Awomi was taken solely to safeguard the credibility of the organisation and maintain public confidence in its leadership.
Further, the union called upon the Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, and all competent enforcement authorities to immediately shut down all bars, restaurants and night clubs found to be selling or facilitating consumption of alcohol in contravention of the NLTP Act.
The ANCSU said, “The persistent and open violation of the law raises serious questions regarding its enforcement and has contributed to various social problems affecting the youth and students community at large.”
The union cautioned that failure on the part of authorities to act decisively against such unlawful establishments would leave it with “no alternative but to initiate any befitting democratic measures” to ensure rule of law and public accountability are upheld.
