Excise and Prohibition Department destroyed seized liquor worth nearly INR 9 lakh under the NLTP Act in Zunheboto district on March 20.
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DIMAPUR — The Excise and Prohibition Department destroys a large quantity of seized liquor valued at nearly INR 8.90 lakh at a designated dumping area in Zunheboto district on March 20.
According to the official destruction certificate, a total of 1,635 bottles of liquor, including rum, canned beer, and whisky, were disposed of by burning. The seized consignment was accumulated from multiple cases registered over a prolonged period.
Speaking during the destruction, Katoho Sumi, chairman of the destruction committee and Joint Commissioner of Excise, called for a more balanced and collective approach to addressing issues related to the enforcement of liquor regulations. He stated that it is not appropriate to place sole blame on the Excise department.
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He stressed that effective enforcement requires the cooperation of all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, community leaders, and the general public. He noted that while criticism is often directed at the department, the responsibility for ensuring compliance with the law cannot rest on a single agency alone.
Highlighting operational challenges, the joint commissioner pointed out that the Excise department continues to function despite a shortage of manpower. “Even with limited personnel, the department carries out its duties with sincerity and commitment,” he said.
He further expressed concern that the public often blames the department without fully understanding the constraints it faces. Stressing the need for shared responsibility, he urged citizens and community groups to actively support enforcement efforts.
The destruction process was carried out following due legal procedures and in the presence of concerned officials. Authorities confirmed that the entire stock stored at the Excise Malkhana has been completely destroyed and officially struck off from records in compliance with the provisions of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act.
A DIPR report mentioned that the operation was overseen by Katoho, along with Vithoselie Terhuja, Deputy Commissioner of Excise (Enforcement), and L Hevito Zhimomi, Superintendent of Excise, Zunheboto, who also serves as member secretary of the committee.