On February 1, Nagaland’s legislators, led by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, gathered for a joint fellowship program in Kohima, where discussions took place regarding the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act of 1989. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) called for stricter enforcement of laws and regulations, emphasizing that this is essential whether the Act is maintained or reviewed. The NBCC stated, “It is expected that stricter implementation and authorization for legal, police, and excise personnel to enforce rules and regulations in Nagaland is the need of the hour,” reflecting the urgency of the issue.
During their meeting, the NBCC stressed the importance of shared accountability between the Church and the government. It noted that while the Church cannot be solely blamed for implementation failures, the government should not completely shift the responsibility onto the Church. The discussions were marked by a consensus on the necessity of ongoing dialogue to further engage on these matters.
The NBCC expressed concerns about various issues undermining the effectiveness of the NLTP Act, including legal loopholes that allow offenders to pay fines rather than face strict penalties. The body also pointed out significant structural gaps, such as the lack of a State Prohibitory Council and District Prohibitory Committees, which are necessary for enforcement since the Act’s inception. Additionally, the Council highlighted shortcomings in the Excise Department due to inadequate staffing, outdated infrastructure, and limited resources, which hinder efforts to combat organized liquor syndicates.
While acknowledging that alcoholism is primarily a medical challenge, the Council recognized its moral dimensions that can endanger lives. The NBCC admitted that its previous strategies had been largely “clergy-centered,” underscoring the need to include lay leadership in tackling the issue. An observed increase in awareness among younger populations has somehow encouraged many to abstain from alcohol.
Legislators raised grave concerns regarding the influx of counterfeit liquors and its impact on public health. They also highlighted issues such as black marketing, challenges in curbing illicit syndicates, and significant revenue losses linked to the Act. Some legislators suggested that a re-examination of the NLTP Act might be necessary.
Dr. Neiphiu Rio reiterated that shared responsibility is crucial for effectively implementing the NLTP Act, urging accountability from both the Church and the government. A proposal was made for establishing a smaller committee to continue discussing the matter.
The NBCC highlighted a perceived disconnect between the Church and the government regarding the NLTP Act. The Church expects rigorous law enforcement from the government, while the government anticipates collaboration from the Church in implementing the Act. However, the practical challenges of enforcing the law, including limited resources and personnel, community cooperation issues, and previous regulatory setbacks, were noted to be inadequately discussed.
Despite expressing faith in the government’s commitment to serve the people, the complexities surrounding the implementation of the NLTP Act remain unclear to the NBCC. They stressed the urgent need for stricter enforcement regardless of whether the ban is retained or lifted, calling for clear authorization for enforcement.
The gathering concluded with the NBCC executives offering prayers for the Chief Minister and legislators, marking an end to the enriching fellowship organized by the Nagaland Legislators’ Christian Fellowship, attended by various officials and their families.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/amid-nltp-act-debate-nbcc-for-stricter-enforcement-of-rules-and-regulations-in-nagaland
Category: Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2026-02-03 23:08:00
