NLTP ACT MORE SUCCESSFUL IN RURAL AREAS, BUT FAILED IN URBAN CENTERS: RIO
The Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act took centre stage on the first day of the 5th session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), sparking intense debate among members.
The discussion, initiated by Moatoshi Longkumer, Advisor for Labour, Employment & Skill Development, and Excise, focused on the “Health Hazards of Spurious Liquor,” under urgent public importance under Rule-50A.
Leader of the house and chief minister Neiphiu Rio, in his address during the Assembly session, emphasized the need for collective action to tackle the challenges posed by spurious and illicit liquor.
Rio, who is also the leader of the house, called for a united approach rather than assigning blame, highlighting that the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act of 1989 was originally intended to address social issues stemming from alcohol abuse, such as domestic violence, health problems, and public disorder.
Acknowledging the Act’s shortcomings over the past three decades, Rio pointed out the unintended consequences, including the rise of the black market and an increase in criminal activity. He stressed that while the state government can regulate and restrict liquor sales, it cannot completely prohibit personal consumption. Rio also noted that the policy has been more successful in rural areas but has largely failed in urban centers.
Addressing the economic dynamics behind the issue, Rio remarked, “As long as people drink, there is bound to be demand and what follows naturally is the supply based on such demand.” He commended the Church for its strong stance on the NLTP Act and acknowledged that the State Government has been actively consulting various societal sectors before making critical decisions on the matter. However, he emphasized that blaming the government alone would not resolve the issues, calling instead for a united effort from all community segments.
Rio further underscored that the enforcement of the NLTP Act cannot rely solely on state agencies like the Police or the Excise department. Effective resolution, he argued, requires cooperation from all levels of society, including families, local communities, and civil society organizations (CSOs).
He also highlighted that the current system has inadvertently benefited those involved in underground operations, with bootleggers emerging as the main beneficiaries, while ordinary citizens have suffered. Additionally, Rio warned that unregulated black market alcohol is often of poor quality, leading to significant health risks and fatalities. He cited Ministry of Home Affairs data showing 947 deaths in 2020 and 782 deaths in 2021 due to spurious liquor, advocating for better regulation to ensure quality control and reduce health complications.
Members debate: Minister Temjen Imna Along urged for a decisive resolution on the NLTP Act, encouraging civil societies and community groups to engage in constructive dialogue rather than assigning blame. He noted that total prohibition has rarely succeeded, with bootleggers often profiting from such policies.
Advisor Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome warned of potential anarchy if prohibition continues and criticized the demonization of liquor, arguing for a balanced approach that respects personal liberty while protecting community interests.
Advisor KT Sukhalu emphasized the significance of the Act’s 34-year history, cautioning against dismissing its impact. He highlighted that liquor prohibition attempts in other countries have largely failed and reiterated the responsibility of the 60 legislators to amend laws in a way that benefits society.
In contrast, Advisor Kudecho Khamo spoke strongly in favor of the NLTP Act, describing its enactment as a significant achievement and a blessing for the Nagas. He praised the leaders who supported the Act and underscored its alignment with Nagaland’s Christian values. Khamo called for efforts to eliminate the negative effects of liquor from homes, streets, and public spaces, urging the state to project itself as a Christian state.
NCP MLA P. Longon expressed concerns about the potential consequences of lifting the NLTP Act, particularly for rural communities. He advocated for strengthening the existing Act by increasing manpower and resources and involving civil and faith-based organizations. Longon warned against both partial and total lifting of the prohibition.
NPP MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso called for thorough consultations with faith-based organizations and civil societies. He proposed a temporary relaxation of the Act to facilitate more informed decision-making in the future. Similarly, NPF legislator Kuzholuzo Nienu supported bolstering the manpower within the Excise department, arguing that with political will, the Act could be strictly enforced.
NPP MLA Nuklutoshi criticized both the government and churches for their roles in the Act’s implementation. He argued that the NLTP Act has caused more harm than good over the past 34 years and suggested it should be entirely lifted.
NPF legislator Achumbemo Kikon proposed the formation of a committee comprising members and experts from various backgrounds to guide the government in revisiting or revoking the Act. He also suggested that the state government consider the desires of different communities and districts regarding prohibition. Kikon emphasized the need for churches to acknowledge the Act’s failures and allow the government to properly regulate the market.
Independent MLA Dr. Neisatuo Mero called for broader consultation with all stakeholders before making any decisions about the Act, stressing the importance of involving diverse perspectives in the decision-making process. Minister K.G. Kenye also highlighted the necessity of reviewing the Act, calling for a fresh evaluation of its effectiveness and impact.
LJP(RV) MLA Dr. Sukhato A. Sema focused on the ill effects of spurious liquor, emphasizing the societal harm caused by unregulated alcohol. The house was yet to formally adopt a resolution over the NLTP Act though it was clear that members highlighted the need for either a thorough review or a potential reform of the Act.
Advisor highlights NLTP Act challenges: Border smuggling, illegal outlets etc.
Correspondent
KOHIMA, AUG 27 (NPN): As the debate over the potential lifting of the three-decade-old NLTP Act of 1989 intensifies, Advisor of Labour, Employment & Skill Development and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer, has underscored the challenges and shortcomings in the enforcement of the Act.
Enacted in 1990 with the goal of fostering social change and creating a peaceful environment, the NLTP Act has faced numerous obstacles over the past three decades, according to Longkumer.
The adviser said the primary concern was Nagaland’s porous border with Assam, which has made it nearly impossible for law enforcement agencies to prevent the smuggling of liquor into the state. He pointed out that there are no fewer than 19 bonded warehouses and distilleries in Assam, further complicating efforts to control the illegal flow of alcohol into Nagaland.
The advisor also emphasized the proliferation of illegal bootleggers and syndicate suppliers that have emerged in response to the growing market demand for alcohol, leading to a flood of spurious liquor that poses serious health risks.
Longkumer expressed concern over the rampant establishment of illegal liquor outlets in Dimapur and Kohima, many of which operate openly under the guise of cold drink shops, with little fear of law enforcement or public outcry. He remarked on the apparent silence from civil societies and organizations regarding this issue, despite the significant public health risks involved.
In his concluding remarks, Longkumer called for a reassessment of the NLTP Act as a crucial step toward addressing various societal challenges, including the diversion of individuals to more dangerous substances like drugs and the adverse effects on the state’s economy.
Tougher rules if Act amended: He suggested that if the Act is amended, the department would intensify enforcement through measures such as introducing weekly dry days, regulating business hours for retail stores, and imposing strict timing for licensed bars, restaurants, and lounges. Additionally, he proposed setting the minimum legal drinking age at 21 and implementing other restrictions and penalties as deemed necessary.
Lack on manpower/resources: Longkumer also lamented on severe resource constraints faced by the Excise department, which is responsible for enforcing the NLTP Act. He pointed out that the department is significantly understaffed, with only 336 personnel tasked with covering the entire state.
Furthermore, he said excise personnel are equipped with outdated .303 rifles and lack sufficient vehicles, making effective enforcement of the prohibition law exceedingly difficult.