The Naga Students' Federation has urged the Nagaland government to strictly enforce the NLTP Act, 1989, citing widespread illegal liquor trade, bootlegging and failure of law enforcement agencies.
DIMAPUR — The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has urged the Government of Nagaland to ensure strict, uniform and uncompromising enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, expressing serious concern over what it described as rampant violations of the law across the state.
In a representation addressed to the Chief Secretary, the federation stated that although discussions on policy reforms or amendments to the Act may be underway, the NLTP Act remains the law of the land and must be enforced until it is amended or repealed through due legislative process.
The NSF alleged that numerous illegal bars, liquor outlets and nightclubs serving alcoholic beverages continue to operate openly in various districts and urban centres in complete violation of the Act.
It said the flourishing operation of such establishments had reduced the legislation to a "mere paper law" and eroded public confidence in the rule of law.
The federation also expressed concern over the growing prevalence of bootlegging and organised illicit liquor trade across the state.
It claimed that illegal syndicates continue to transport, distribute and sell liquor through well-established networks without fear of legal consequences, contributing to organised crime, corruption, public disorder and increasing social problems, particularly among the youth.
Warning those engaged in bootlegging and the illegal sale and distribution of liquor, the NSF called on them to immediately cease their activities, stating that it would not remain a silent spectator while vested interests continued to undermine the law for personal gain.
Also read: Prysm Lounge row: CNCCI backs DCCI, slams student ‘vigilantism’ and NLTP loopholes
Nagaland sets up working group for state-wide manpower audit
The federation further expressed disappointment over what it termed the apparent laxity and failure of law enforcement agencies and the departments concerned in addressing blatant violations of the NLTP Act.
It said the continued operation of illegal bars, nightclubs and bootlegging networks, despite being common public knowledge, raised serious questions about the effectiveness and accountability of the authorities responsible for enforcing the law.
The NSF called upon the state government to immediately direct all deputy commissioners, the Police department, the Excise department and other competent authorities to launch coordinated and sustained enforcement drives against illegal bars, liquor outlets, nightclubs, bootlegging syndicates and all individuals or establishments engaged in activities prohibited under the Act.
It demanded that all offenders be identified, prosecuted and dealt with strictly in accordance with the law, without fear or favour.
The federation also cautioned that if the prevailing situation of widespread violations and administrative inaction continued, it would be compelled to initiate democratic measures to uphold the sanctity of the law and safeguard the interests of society.
It added that the government and the authorities concerned would be held responsible for any consequences arising from their failure to discharge their statutory responsibilities.
The NSF expressed hope that the state government would treat the matter with the seriousness it deserved and take immediate corrective measures to restore public confidence in the rule of law through effective enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act across the state.