Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: The Naga Council Dimapur and its repeal committee served a fresh demand to the deputy commissioner on Tuesday. They want the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act of 1989 scrapped in Dimapur. The council sent this request to the chief minister and top state officials after months of silence from the government. NCD president GK Rengma said the law remains ineffective after 37 years. "The NLTP Act, enacted in 1989, had completed 37 years but liquor remained widely available in Dimapur despite the prohibition," Rengma stated.
Liquor flows freely. The NCD vigilance committee found over 2,000 illegal outlets scattered across Chümoukedima Gate 2, New Field Gate, Manja Gate, Purana Bazar, and various other key areas. This count ignores local restaurants entirely. Dealers sell booze around the clock in residential zones. Leaders argue that prohibition causes unnecessary deaths linked to toxic, bootlegged spirits. They claim regulation ensures quality and keeps the state in control.
The CSOs propose a one-year trial. Shops would operate from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. with strict dry days. They want to limit sales to customers aged 23 or older, capped at two bottles per person through Aadhaar-based checks. NCD general secretary LK Peter Anal said the proposal includes census data and a clear roadmap for state officials. The group has consulted with church leaders but insists the government holds the burden of regulation.
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Tinojongshi Chang confirmed the documents are moving up the chain. No deadline exists for a response. The council plans to meet and decide their next move if the state refuses to act again.
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