Dignitaries with winners and participants of 17th Inter-Collegiate Debate Competition 2024.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 26
Sazolie College hosted its 17th inter-collegiate debate competition on the topic “NLTP Act is a boon for the Naga Society” at Vineizono Hall, Phezhu, Jotsoma, on October 25 last.
The event witnessed participation from 18 colleges across Nagaland.
Ricky Das from Modern College won the competition and received a cash prize of Rs 15,000. Walonir Jamir from Model College and T Lamdang from Japfü Christian College secured second and third position and awarded with Rs 10,000 and Rs 7,500 respectively. Five consolation prizes of Rs 1000 each were awarded to Vekhrüzo Nyekha from Oriental College, Limugha Achumi from Platinum College, Phushically A Achumi from Sazolie College, Y Yongkai Phom from Sao Chang College and Imkongsanen from St Joseph’s College, Jakhama.
Earlier, Dr Villo Naleo, Associate Professor, Shalom Bible Seminary acted as the critic. He highlighted why the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act has become a contentious issue, citing numerous reasons for its challenges and perceived failures. He proposed strategies for improving its effectiveness, suggesting that Nagaland could benefit from studying successful prohibition models in other countries.
Dr Naleo emphasized the Act’s positive social impact to date and its potential for better outcomes with enhanced implementation.
Proponents of the NLTP Act highlighted its role in reducing alcohol consumption and related social issues, such as domestic violence, crime, and health concerns, while promoting moral values. They noted alcohol’s harmful impact on the social fabric and argued that the Act has helped curb addiction, suggesting that further refinement and stronger enforcement could boost its effectiveness.
The opposition argued that the prohibition Act presents challenges in regulating alcohol consumption, leading to increased illegal activities such as bootlegging and black-market sales, along with economic losses and corruption within law enforcement.
They contended that the Act has not eliminated alcohol use, as smuggling and low-quality liquor remain prevalent, posing risks to consumers. Additionally, they viewed the Act as an infringement on personal freedom, asserting that improved regulation could better address social issues.
The debate has made it clear that while the Act has its share of success in certain areas, there are other significant challenges to its effectiveness in other aspects.
Earlier, Dr Gopal Chetri, Principal of Sazolie College delivered welcome address. Panel of judges includes Naro Imchen, Associate Professor from the Department of English, Kohima Science College Jotsoma, Khriebu Nakhro, Convenor, Village Vision Cell, Jotsoma Village, Kezhosano Kikhi, Advocate, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Council Nagaland State Legal Services Authority. Sungjemmenla Longkumer, Asst. Professor from the Department of English chaired the programme while vote of thanks was proposed by Jonna Mezhui, Convenor, Debate Committee.
