Sazolie College hosted its 17th Inter-Collegiate Debate Competition on the topic “NLTP Act is a Boon for the Naga Society” at Vineizono Hall, Phezhü, Jotsoma, on 25th October 2024. Dr. Villo Naleo, Associate Professor at Shalom Bible Seminary, served as the critic, while Dr. Gopal Chetri, Principal of Sazolie College, delivered the welcome address, a press release informed.
The panel of judges included Naro Imchen, Associate Professor from the Department of English, Kohima Science College, Khriebu Nakhro, Convenor, Village Vision Cell, Jotsoma Village District Planning and Development Board, Kezhosano Kikhi, Advocate, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Council Nagaland State Legal Services Authority. The event featured participation from 18 colleges across Nagaland.
Dr. Naleo, serving as Critic, highlighted why the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act has become a contentious issue, citing numerous reasons for its challenges and perceived failures. He proposed strategies for improving its effectiveness, suggesting that Nagaland could benefit from studying successful prohibition models in other countries. Dr. Naleo emphasized the Act’s positive social impact to date and its potential for better outcomes with enhanced implementation.
The press release stated that the proponents of the NLTP Act highlighted its role in reducing alcohol consumption and related social issues, such as domestic violence, crime, and health concerns, while promoting moral values. They noted alcohol’s harmful impact on the social fabric and argued that the Act has helped curb addiction, suggesting that further refinement and stronger enforcement could boost its effectiveness.
The opposition argued that the prohibition Act presents challenges in regulating alcohol consumption, leading to increased illegal activities such as bootlegging and black-market sales, along with economic losses and corruption within law enforcement. They contended that the Act has not eliminated alcohol use, as smuggling and low-quality liquor remain prevalent, posing risks to consumers. Additionally, they viewed the Act as an infringement on personal freedom, asserting that improved regulation could better address social issues. The debate has made it clear that while the act has its share of success in certain areas, there are other significant challenges to its effectiveness in other aspects.
Ricky Das from Modern College won the competition, while Walonir Jamir from Model College and T. Lamdang from Japfü Christian College secured second and third places, respectively. The winners received cash prizes of Rs. 15,000, Rs. 10,000, and Rs. 7,500.
Five consolation prizes of Rs. 1,000 each were awarded to Vekhrüzo Nyekha from Oriental College, Limugha Achumi from Platinum College, Phushically A. Achumi from Sazolie College, Y. Yongkai Phom from Sao Chang College, and Imkongsanen from St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama.
Sungjemmenla Longkumer, Asst. Professor from the Department of English, chaired the programme, Nzanthung Kikon, Chaplain, pronounced the invocation. Jonna Mezhui, Convenor, Debate Committee, proposed the vote of thanks.
