DIMAPUR, JULY 23 (MExN): The Dimapur Naga Students' Union (DNSU) on Tuesday called upon the Nagaland State Government to review/amend the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act.
In a press release, the DNSU president Hinoto P Awomi and general secretary Micheal Kath stated that the NLTP Act was enacted in 1989 to eradicate alcohol-related issues in the state; however, after three decades of implementation, the Act has fallen short of its intended objectives.
Despite its noble intentions, the prohibition has inadvertently fuelled a thriving black market, perpetuating illegal activities and drug abuse, it stated while claiming that alcohol dens is found in every nook and corner, even extending to the vicinity of educational and religious institutions.
The DNSU also said it is an open secret that alcohols are being sold openly in high end restaurants and lounges.
Moreover, the state incurs significant revenue losses annually, while enforcement efforts remain ineffective and disorganized. It is clear that the prohibition act, although well-intentioned, has caused more harm than good, it elaborated.
The DNSU argued that rather than persisting with a failed approach, it is imperative to revaluate and explore alternative solutions. The objectives of the Act were admirable, but its implementation has been woefully inadequate. After 30 years, it is evident that prohibition alone is not the solution, it went on to state.
It, therefore, urged the State Government, as “representative of the people to take decisive action in the upcoming Assembly session to address this pressing issue.” “It is time to consider new strategies to address alcohol-related issues, rather than clinging to an outdated and ineffective law. A comprehensive review of the Act is necessary to develop a more effective and sustainable approach to mitigating the harm caused by alcohol abuse,” it stated.
In the event of the government’s inaction, the DNSU cautioned that it will be “forced to assume a more proactive role in combating the rampant sale and consumption of alcohol in Dimapur.”
“We will undertake strategic initiatives to dismantle illicit alcohol dens and enforce regulatory compliance, thereby filling the enforcement vacuum and protecting the welfare of our citizens,” it stated.
