Dimapur: The Nagaland Government has announced plans to revisit the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act of 1989, signaling a potential shift in the state’s long-standing prohibition policy.
The Act prohibit the possession, saIe, consumption and manufacture of liquor in and of import and export thereof in the State of Nagaland.
Following a recent state cabinet meeting held at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat, the government revealed the possibility of partially lifting the prohibition in certain areas.
Government spokesperson and Minister of Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye was quoted by Akashvani news Kohima where he emphasised the need to relook the NLTP Act, which has remained unchanged for over three decades.
Kenye highlighted growing concerns over the unregulated inflow of illegal liquor into the state, which poses significant health risks, especially to the youth. He pointed out that the absence of a regulatory framework has allowed bootleggers to smuggle substandard and potentially harmful alcohol into Nagaland.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
While acknowledging the efforts of church leaders and law enforcement agencies in addressing alcohol-related issues, the government spokesperson noted that total prohibition has not yielded the desired outcomes. He drew comparisons to similar experiences in other parts of the world, where outright bans have often proven ineffective.
The Minister indicated that the issue might be brought up for discussion during the upcoming monsoon session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, scheduled from August 27 to 29. The session could see further deliberation and possible amendments to the NLTP Act.
Also Read | Nagaland: RPP opposes nomination of non-Naga candidates in ULBs