DIMAPUR, JULY 23 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has called upon the Nagaland Government to immediately ensure stringent and uniform enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, warning that it would initiate its “own democratic course of action” if alleged violations and administrative inaction continue.
In a representation addressed to the Nagaland Chief Secretary, the NSF expressed concern over what it termed the “rampant and unabated violation” of the NLTP Act across the State and sought immediate government intervention for its “strict, uniform and uncompromising enforcement.”
The Federation maintained that while the State Government may be discussing possible policy reforms, amendments or a review of the existing legal framework, the NLTP Act continues to remain in force.
“Until such time as the Legislature amends or repeals the Act through due process, every authority entrusted with its enforcement is constitutionally and legally bound to uphold its provisions in both letter and spirit,” stated the representation appended by NSF President Mteisuding and General Secretary Kenilo Kent.
‘Mere paper legislation’
The NSF alleged that numerous illegal bars, liquor outlets and nightclubs serving alcoholic beverages continue to operate openly across various districts and urban centres in violation of the Act.
It maintained that the continued operation of such establishments in public view points to a failure of the enforcement machinery and has effectively reduced the NLTP Act to a “mere paper legislation,” while undermining public confidence in the rule of law.
The Federation also flagged what it described as the proliferation of bootlegging and organised illicit liquor trade across the State, alleging that liquor continues to be transported, distributed and sold through established networks with little fear of legal consequences.
Such activities, it claimed, contribute to organised crime, corruption, public disorder and social problems, particularly among the youth.
The NSF further cautioned individuals and syndicates engaged in bootlegging and illegal sale or distribution of liquor to cease such activities, stating that it would “not remain a silent spectator” while the law is allegedly undermined for personal gain.
Calls for coordinated enforcement drives
The Federation expressed dismay over what it termed “laxity, indifference and failure” by law enforcement agencies and departments in addressing the alleged violations citing continued operation of illegal bars, nightclubs and bootlegging networks.
This raises questions over the sincerity, effectiveness and accountability of the authorities responsible for enforcing the law, it held.
Accordingly, the NSF called upon the State Government to direct all Deputy Commissioners, the Police, Excise Department and other competent authorities to launch coordinated and sustained enforcement drives against illegal bars, liquor outlets, nightclubs and bootlegging networks.
It demanded that individuals and establishments found violating the NLTP Act be identified and prosecuted “without fear, favour or exception.”
The Federation further cautioned that if the alleged violations and administrative inaction continue, it would be “compelled to initiate its own democratic course of action to uphold the sanctity of the law and safeguard the interests of society.”
In such an eventuality, the NSF said the State Government and authorities concerned would be held accountable for consequences arising from what it termed continued failure to discharge their statutory responsibilities.
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