Expressing deep concern and strong opposition to the Nagaland Cabinet’s decision to partially lift the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act (NLTP), 1989, the Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship (KBPF) has said that this decision “is an outright violation of God’s precepts”. It is not only unwise but irresponsible and is a dangerous step backward, it added.
It reminded that the NLTP Act was enacted and implemented as a safeguard against the harmful effects of alcohol consumption following fervent prayers of believers, as well as much pain and struggles by way of staging mass protests, public rallies, even Fast unto Death, spearheaded by the NBCC and Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) and other Civil Societies.
KBPF has said that the short-term boost to the State’s economy through increased sales and tax revenues of liquor “will be offset by very costly long-term social, physical, psychological, spiritual and economic deterioration of families” and asked, “Can the state afford to pay this price by playing with the lives of its citizens?”
The Fellowship maintained that the NLTP Act has not failed the Nagas but that “we have collectively failed” and therefore, instead of talking about lifting or relaxing, the focus should be on strengthening the implementation of the Act.
In unity with the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), the KBPF urged the State Government “to strictly implement the Act through proper consultation over the rhetoric of revenue, because if even after three decades, we can implement the Act, relaxing will be disastrous.” Further, it also called upon every believer irrespective of denomination, and all responsible citizens to prayerfully take the stand likewise.
Read more: NLTP Act should not be used as scapegoat for ‘revenue-starved’ Nagaland: NBCC
The press release was signed by KBPF President Rev Vezopa Rhakho, Vice President Mhonchumo S. Lotha, General Secretary Dr Ruokuovilie Sachü, Assistant Gen. Secretary Rev Thsadongse Sangtam, Treasurer Khekavi Yeptho, Publicity & Information Secretary Sankara Narayan, Advisor Rev Phomlee Van, Advisor Rev Sentisashi Aier, and Advisor Rev. Dr Kevichalie Metha.
