NPCC, NPYC seek probe into Tuensang spurious liquor deaths

DIMAPUR, SEP 13 (NPN): Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) and Nagaland Pradesh Youth Congress have expressed grief over the reported deaths of nine persons in Tuensang allegedly linked to consumption of suspected spurious liquor and demanded a thorough and impartial investigation.
In a statement, NPCC extended condolences to the bereaved families and questioned the enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, asking how suspected spurious liquor could enter the market, move through the supply chain and reach consumers if Nagaland was a “dry State”.
NPCC demanded identification of the manufacturers, suppliers, transporters and sellers involved and stringent action against those responsible. It also sought an inquiry into possible negligence, failure or complicity by the Excise & Prohibition Department, police and other enforcement agencies.
The Congress committee demanded immediate ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased and appropriate assistance for those undergoing treatment. It also called for public disclosure of forensic/laboratory findings and the outcome of the investigation.
NPCC further sought a comprehensive review of the implementation and enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1989.
“The Government cannot simply place the entire responsibility upon the victims,” the NPCC said, adding that when prohibited and potentially poisonous liquor circulated in a prohibition State and resulted in loss of lives, the government owed the people an explanation. NPCC called upon the State government to fix accountability and ensure that such a tragedy was not repeated.
NPYC: Nagaland Pradesh Youth Congress (NPYC) president Herole Y has condemned the reported deaths and hospitalisations in Tuensang allegedly linked to consumption of spurious liquor and urged the authorities to immediately verify the reports and conduct a thorough investigation.
“Any loss of life due to spurious liquor is extremely serious. The government must act quickly to identify the source, suppliers and entire network involved in the illegal liquor trade,” Herole said. He pointed out that Nagaland is a dry State under the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, which prohibits the possession, transportation, sale, purchase, consumption and manufacture of liquor in the State.
“After so many years of prohibition, the continued availability of illegal liquor raises serious questions about enforcement. The law must not remain only on paper. There must be accountability from those who manufacture, transport and sell such dangerous liquor,” he said.
Herole urged the government to strengthen enforcement, improve coordination among departments and ensure immediate medical support to all affected persons.
“The government should not wait for another tragedy before taking action. The people of Nagaland deserve effective enforcement and greater accountability,” he added.