NBCC welcomes Nagaland's liquor crackdown, backs stricter NLTP Act enforcement and urges public responsibility, compassion and lasting social reform
DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has welcomed the state government's recent crackdown on illegal liquor trade, describing the sealing of establishments selling alcohol in violation of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act as a significant step towards upholding the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NBCC expressed appreciation to the government of Nagaland, particularly the Excise department and all authorities concerned, for enforcing the NLTP Act by sealing establishments involved in the illegal sale of alcohol.
The council stated that the 1989 NLTP Act was more than a legislative measure, describing it as a reflection of the collective moral conviction of the people of Nagaland to protect society from the harmful effects of alcohol.
Although implementation of the law has faced challenges over the years, the NBCC maintained that the principles behind the Act remain relevant, saying it seeks to safeguard human life, strengthen families and communities, promote public health, and encourage responsibility and moral accountability.
Also read: DUCCF questions effectiveness of Nagaland liquor prohibition policy
‘No dilution’: NBCC hardens stand on liquor prohibition ahead of Nagaland Assembly session
The church body added that it has consistently prayed for the faithful implementation of the prohibition law and welcomed the government's renewed resolve to enforce it.
Noting that alcohol abuse continues to leave "deep scars" across society, the NBCC stated that its impact extends far beyond legal violations, affecting families through domestic violence, broken relationships, poor health, economic hardship and lost opportunities.
At the same time, it cautioned that legislation alone cannot transform society. "Laws may restrain wrongdoing and establish standards of public conduct, but they cannot change the human heart," the council stated.
The NBCC urged citizens not to view the NLTP Act merely as a legal obligation but as a reminder of their shared responsibility to build a healthier, safer and more compassionate society.
It also encouraged the government and law enforcement agencies to continue implementing the law fairly, transparently and without fear or favour, saying consistent enforcement would strengthen public confidence in governance.
Appealing for public cooperation, the council maintained that the success of any law depends not only on enforcement agencies but also on the willingness of citizens to respect and uphold it.
The NBCC further called on people not to stigmatise those struggling with alcohol addiction, stressing that they deserve compassion, counselling, pastoral care and opportunities for rehabilitation rather than rejection.
Reaffirming its commitment to support individuals and families affected by addiction, the council affirmed that churches would continue extending spiritual guidance, counselling and practical assistance.