Calls for collective accountability; strengthen enforcement
Chümoukedima, December 8 (MExN): The Pochury Baptist Church Council (PBCC) has reiterated its firm support for the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act and aligned itself with the Nagaland Baptist Church Council’s (NBCC) stance against “any move to repeal or dilute the law.”
The resolution was passed during the PBCC’s Annual Council Meet held at the Pochury Baptist Church, Chümoukedima from December 5 to 7.
In a statement issued by its Executive Secretary, Rev Rümatho Nyusou, the PBCC described alcohol abuse as “one of the greatest social, moral, and spiritual threats to our society,” citing broken families, domestic violence, poverty, crime, accidents, health crisis and the erosion of moral values.
The PBCC asserted that the NLTP Act was enacted as a protective measure to safeguard society, particularly the younger generation, from these destructive forces. Its intention is rooted in public welfare, social justice, and moral responsibility.
It argued that the economic argument for lifting prohibition “cannot and should not outweigh the value of human life, dignity, and moral responsibility,” asserting that economic gains achieved at the cost of social destruction are neither sustainable nor justifiable.
While acknowledging implementation challenges, the PBCC contended that the failure lies in “weak enforcement and lack of collective accountability,” not in the law itself. It urged the state Government of Nagaland to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, intensify vigilance, curb illegal liquor trade, and hold all those involved in violations of the Act accountable without fear or favour.
“As a Christian body, guided by biblical values of righteousness, self-control, and concern for the vulnerable, the PBCC reiterated its commitment to standing in the gap for the moral, spiritual, and social health of our people. Further, it called upon policy makers, civil society organizations, tribal bodies, and citizens to work together to uphold the spirit and purpose of the NLTP Act.
While extending support to the NBCC, it appealed to the state government to refrain from lifting the NLTP Act and to take decisive steps for its “strict and sincere implementation for the greater good of society.”
