CM stresses on joint responsibility between Church and Govt
Legislators led by the chief minister and colleagues and executive of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) engaged in a candid discussion on the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act of 1989, highlighting both shared concerns and differing expectations. The dialogue followed a fellowship service held on February 1 organized by the Nagaland Legislators Christian Fellowship (NLCF) at the State Chapel Hall attended by chief minister Dr.Neiphiu Rio, his wife, cabinet colleagues, and legislators with their spouses.
In a joint statement issued by NBCC General Secretary Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener and Secretary (Social Concern) Dr. Villo Naleo, the Council reiterated its firm stand on stricter implementation of the NLTP Act. It highlighted loopholes in the law, pointing out that offenders can escape with fines, and criticized the absence of structural mechanisms such as the State Prohibitory Council and District Prohibitory Committees, which were never constituted since the Act’s inception.
NBCC also lamented the meagre workforce and outdated infrastructure of the Excise Department, which it said is left to battle liquor cartels with limited resources.
While acknowledging that alcoholism is both a medical and moral problem, the Council admitted its past failure in making the Act clergy-centered and resolved to involve lay leadership in addressing the issue.
On the dynamics of enforcement, NBCC stressed that “an Act itself cannot be effective unless conscientiously implemented,” blaming the lack of political will for years of inaction. It noted that despite challenges, many young people today are voluntarily abstaining from alcohol, aware of its harmful effects.
Rio, in his remarks, emphasized that the NLTP Act was a joint initiative of both the government and the Church, and therefore both must share responsibility. Legislators suggested forming a smaller committee to carry forward the discussions.
However, a disconnect between the Church and government was evident. While NBCC expects full implementation of the Act by the authorities, the government has been looking for collaboration from the Church. Legislators did not elaborate on the difficulties of enforcement, though challenges such as lack of manpower, community non-cooperation, and failed past regulations were acknowledged as setbacks.
NBCC insisted that stricter enforcement and greater authorization of legal, police, and excise personnel is urgently needed, regardless of whether the ban is lifted or retained. Both sides agreed that neither the Church should hold the government ransom for lapses, nor should the government shift blame onto the Church.
The deliberation concluded with a commitment to continue dialogue, and the NBCC executives offered prayers for the Chief Minister and legislators.
Following the service, NLCF hosted a fellowship lunch.
Earlier, delivering the message, NBCC president Rev. Achu Chang chose a verse from Psalm 23, while speaking on the theme “An earthly King knowing His Heavenly King intimately,”.
Rev. Chang urged believers to deepen their spiritual relationship with God.
Musical contributions came from pianist Shikalu Shohe and cantor Katoli Sumi, while the CM’s office staff served as ushers.
Rev. Küghato K. Chophi led the prayer for the offering, followed by greetings from NBCC General Secretary Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener and Chief Minister Rio. Scripture was read by NBCC Vice President Dr. Igumpeule Ndang, and intercessory prayer was offered by Rev. Tialemba Phom. The NBCC staff presented a special song, and the service concluded with a benediction by Rev. Dr. S.J. Akum.