Against the backdrop of the government of Nagaland temporarily relaxing the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act under some provision, in order to permit sale and consumption of liquor for tourists only during the ten-day Hornbill Festival, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council has renewed its concerns over permission for sale and consumption of alcohol during the ongoing festival.
Reacting to the decision, NBCC general secretary Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho noted that the government had extracted specific provisions under the Act meant for alcoholics, which permits use of alcohol for medical purposes under supervision, and also provision for sale to military and paramilitary personnel in their barracks including limited provisions for hoteliers through proper channels.
Rev Keyho admitted that due to unsuccessful implementation of the Act and despite the church’s strong opposition to sale and consumption of alcohol, there is random inflow of liquor into the state.
He said the virtual “tug-of-war” persists between the government and the church in the state, over the issue of whether to “lift” or “strengthen” the NLTP Act.
Rev. Keyho maintained that the argument for lifting the Act was on financial standpoint on premise that Nagaland, being a revenue-starved state, was losing potential income to neighboring states where liquor is readily available. He noted that that the debate frequently leads to comparisons with other in the region, the country, and beyond.
On the other hand, those who oppose lifting the Act, argue from a moral and social perspective, pointing out the destructive impact of alcohol on society and families in particular. He said “every mother has a story to tell how liquor has destroyed the family” and yet this is being ignored as arguments continue.
Citing the relaxation of the Act this year especially for the Hornbill Festival, Rev. Keyho asked whether accommodating tourists through provisions within or outside the NLTPA was justified?
He maintained that tourists do not visit Nagaland to consume alcohol but to experience the state’s rich culture, heritage, and tribal traditions. Dr Keyho said if tourists came to drink alcohol, then they are in the wrong state where instead the focus should be on showcasing Nagaland’s unique identity and not on facilitating access to alcohol.
According to Rev. Keyho, the relaxation of the Act made it appear as if tourists are here to drink. He said this will only make tourists feel guilty for being part of the problem.
Rev. Keyho reminded that as a community, there has been a failure to demonstrate the maturity expected of hosts to visitors.
He expressed concern that the state continues to rely on elements that contribute to division within society. To argue his case, Rev. Keyho highlighted the beauty of Naga culture which should be showcased to the world.
He said even if Nagaland might lag in many areas of development, yet in terms of culture, customs, hospitality, and generosity, Nagas are second to none but they were not known for something that destroys and divides the society.
Rev. Keyho emphasized that the destructive impact of liquor was well-known, with many families suffering from broken homes, children growing up without fathers, wives becoming widows, and young people dropping out of school and college. He said these issues remain deeply rooted in society, and the church continues to uphold the Act as it was essential for the state’s progress.
Rev. Keyho reiterated that the church believes alcohol does not contribute to the state’s development and that, despite Nagaland being a Christian-majority state, perfection has yet to be achieved.
He conveyed this to visitors, stressing that it reflects the state’s commitment to a better future. Rev. Keyho reminded that the impact of the NLTP provision would persist long after the festival concludes. While guests would return back, yet the ongoing debate and the long-term ill effects of the provision will continue to take a toll on the society adding this was what worries the church.
Rev. Keyho also conveyed to the visitors that as they had come to experience part of Nagaland, he expressed the hope that they will leave the state on a positive note aside the relaxation of the Act.