Nagaland: DAABAPF opposes lifting NLTP Act

The Dimapur Area Ao Baptist Arogo Pastors’ Fellowship (DAABAPF) has declared firm opposition to any move to lift the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act (NLTPA), following renewed demands from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Dimapur. In a meeting held on December 7, 2025, the fellowship resolved to prayerfully but decisively defend the continuation of the Act, calling instead for its “proper and stricter implementation.”
In a joint statement, DAABAPF president Jongpong Imsong and finance secretary R. Imti Imsong said the Act’s shortcomings stem not from its design but from years of government inaction.
They noted that key provisions under Chapter III-such as appointing a Director of Prohibition, Prohibition Officers, and establishing State- and District-level prohibition bodies-were never implemented. DAABAPF argued that this failure reflects administrative incompetence rather than flaws in the law itself, warning that lifting the NLTPA now would be “an immature decision.”
DAABAPF also underscored the Act’s historical and spiritual significance. It described the NLTPA as a product of mass Christian mobilization and the extraordinary sacrifice of 125 believers who undertook a “Fast unto Death” campaign in 1989. DAABAPF said the Act, symbolizes a moral stand against social harm and remains a testament to collective faith-driven action.
Appealing to Christians across Nagaland, DAABAPF urged the public to reflect on the Act’s origins and purpose, and to uphold the call for its full and meaningful enforcement. It also maintained that strengthening the NLTPA is both a moral duty and a responsibility toward safeguarding families and society.