Kohima: The Nagaland Baptist Church Council pushed the state government to strictly enforce the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act. The council backed a similar demand from the Naga Students' Federation. The church leadership argued that the government must maintain the rule of law until the legislature officially amends or repeals the 1989 statute. Officials ignore this duty at their own peril.
The NBCC warned that selective enforcement breeds corruption and ruins public trust. The council stated that public office is a "sacred trust" and those in authority are expected to administer justice impartially, honestly and with accountability. Church leaders pointed to the social toll of the illegal liquor trade. They linked alcohol abuse to poverty, domestic violence, child neglect, and fatal traffic accidents.
The council urged the Excise Commissioner to expand recent enforcement drives from Dimapur into Kohima and every other district. It also called on colony chairpersons and ward councillors to assist in curbing the underground trade. They noted that any changes to the law must happen through transparent, democratic, and evidence-based processes.
Naga nationalist groups also drew a sharp rebuke from the council. Leaders asked these factions to stay out of illegal liquor syndicates. The council emphasized that the state must support addicts with rehabilitation and pastoral care during this process. "The future of Nagaland depends greatly on the values, health and aspirations of its younger generation, and their voice merits both respect and meaningful consideration," the statement said. The council expects the state to consult with all stakeholders before making further policy moves.
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