Dimapur, June 30 (EMN): Advisor for Sericulture, Excise and Minority Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, on Thursday said that the importance of check-gates cannot be ignored as long as the state remains under the prohibition regime.
He was speaking during a departmental review meeting of the directorate and district officers of the Excise and Prohibition department to discuss matters relating to the closure of excise check-gates, field related activities and service matters.
He said that the check-gates had been instrumental in the seizure of a large number of cases, which had given high visibility to the department of its presence and field activity, according to an update from the Excise dept.
Rio further stated that the issue of check-gates need to be further deliberated and taken up with the concerned authority. He, however, asserted that the enforcement of existing acts and laws need to be implemented regardless of the situation and circumstances.
“The flow of liquor in the state can be curbed to a great extent by exploring the best possible ways by optimally using the available resources of the department,” it stated.
He also assured the department help and support from his side in this aspect.
Secretary to the government of Nagaland, Excise and Prohibition department, Kevekha Kevin Zehol, stressed on the importance of following the laid down government rules and regulations in service matters and general office administration. He also emphasised on proportionate staffing of personnel at the district outposts.
Deputy Commissioner of Excise (HQ), S Chanlei Angh, meanwhile, gave a paper presentation on the various field activities of the department. T Arilong Longkumer, Superintendent of Excise, Narcotic Cell, also gave a short powerpoint presentation on the issue and ramifications of post-closure of the Excise check-gates.
“With the closure of the Excise check-gates, there is every possibility of the abundant flow of liquor. As per the raids conducted and the investigations thereof, it has been reported that liquor rates had drastically reduced in the far flung district areas,” it stated.
The meeting was chaired by H Atokhe Aye, Commissioner of Excise and Prohibition. A brief interaction with the outpost officers pertaining to enforcement issues was also held, and the vote of thanks was given by S Phyobemo Kikon, Asst. Commissioner of Excise (Admn).