Nagaland: State government criticized for relaxing liquor ban

Nagaland: The Kohima Baptist Pastors Fellowship (KBPF) has criticised the state government over the partial lifting of the Nagaland Complete prohibition of alcohol (NLTP) Act, 1989. In a press release, the Fellowship highlighted that the NLTP Act has been a safeguard against the harmful effects of alcohol consumption since its enactment by the Nagaland Assembly. The Act, enacted in 1989, was a result of the prayers and significant efforts of the believers including massive protests and public rallies led by the NBCC and the Naga Mothers Association (NMA) along with other civil societies. The KBPF expressed deep concern and strong opposition to the recent decision of the Cabinet to reconsider and partially lift the Act.

They said the lifting of the ban is a violation of God’s teachings and is a dangerous move.

The pastors said alcohol abuse leads to health complications, moral and spiritual degradation, family disintegration, domestic violence and other social problems. While some argue that lifting the prohibition will boost the state’s economy through increased sales and tax revenue, the Fellowship believes that any short-term gains will be offset by long-term social, physical, psychological, spiritual and economic deterioration. The KBPF questioned whether the state was able to afford the price of such a decision, stressing that the welfare and safety of families should not be sacrificed for monetary gain. They argued that the NLTP Act has not failed but rather its implementation has been lacking. The Fellowship urged the government to strictly implement the Act through proper consultation rather than relaxing it for revenue purposes. The KBPF reaffirmed its stand with the NBCC against the proposed partial removal of the Act and called on all believers and responsible citizens to take a similar stand.