Discover the Authentic Charm of Nagaland: Why Tourists Seek More Than Just Drinks – NBCC Insight

Kohima, December 1 (MExN): Amid the Hornbill Festival, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) strongly criticized the State’s partial relaxation of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act (NLTP), 1989, emphasizing that tourists visit to experience the region’s rich cultural and tribal heritage, not for alcohol consumption. The NBCC, through a statement by its General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho, expressed concerns that the move might misrepresent Nagaland, suggesting tourists are primarily there to drink, which is contrary to their cultural objectives.

The Council highlighted the specific allowances in the NLTP Act for alcohol use under medical supervision and for military purposes, suggesting these provisions have been inadequately communicated. The NBCC fears that emphasizing alcohol during the festival could divide rather than unite and argued that true festival enjoyment stems from cultural appreciation and social harmony.

The NBCC, maintaining its stance, argued that alcohol does more harm than good, hindering societal progress. Despite Nagaland’s Christian majority, the State struggles with perfection, according to the Church. It urged tourists to focus on cultural experiences over controversial provisions and encouraged the Nagaland government to exhibit maturity by concentrating on showcasing vibrant traditions.

Acknowledging the ongoing challenges in implementing the NLTP Act effectively, with illegal alcohol circulation persisting, the NBCC noted the debate around either lifting or enforcing the Act remains unresolved. Proponents of lifting the prohibition point to potential revenue benefits for the economically challenged state, yet overlook the societal harms of alcohol.

In a broader context, Nagaland Tourism Minister, Imna Along, announced the temporary allowance for the sale of Indian Made Foreign Liquor at Kisama during the festival, further fueling the conversation over the Act’s relevance in contemporary Nagaland. The NBCC hopes the festival concludes with tourists departing with positive cultural memories, overshadowing the discord regarding prohibition policies.

Original Story https://www.morungexpress.com/tourists-are-not-coming-to-nagaland-for-drinking-nbcc
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2024-12-02 00:16:00