Dimapur, September 13 (MExN): The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) and its youth wing, the Nagaland Pradesh Youth Congress (NPYC), have expressed concern over the reported deaths and hospitalisations in Tuensang allegedly linked to the consumption of suspected spurious liquor, calling for a thorough investigation and greater accountability.
The NPCC expressed grief over the reported deaths of nine persons and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families. It questioned how suspected spurious liquor could enter the market and reach consumers despite Nagaland’s prohibition regime under the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989.
It demanded a thorough and impartial investigation to identify the manufacturers, suppliers, transporters and sellers involved, along with stringent action against those responsible. It also sought an inquiry into possible negligence, failure or complicity by the Excise & Prohibition Department, Police and other enforcement agencies.
The NPCC further called for immediate ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased, assistance for those undergoing treatment, public disclosure of forensic or laboratory findings and the outcome of the investigation, and a comprehensive review of the implementation and enforcement of the NLTP Act.
In a press release, the NPCC called upon the State Government to fix accountability and ensure that such a tragedy is not repeated.
Meanwhile, in a separate release, NPYC President Herole Y said any loss of life allegedly caused by spurious liquor was a serious matter and urged authorities to identify the source, suppliers and network involved in the illegal liquor trade.
“After so many years of prohibition, the continued availability of illegal liquor raises serious questions about enforcement,” Herole said, calling for accountability among those involved in the manufacture, transportation and sale of illicit liquor.
According to an NPYC press release, he also urged the government to strengthen enforcement, improve inter-departmental coordination and ensure immediate medical support for affected persons.
“The government should not wait for another tragedy before taking action. The people of Nagaland deserve effective enforcement and greater accountability,” he said.
