NBCC seeks probe into Tuensang deaths, stronger liquor enforcement and an honest relook at Nagaland’s prohibition law
DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has called for a thorough and impartial probe into the deaths of at least 11 people in Tuensang amid suspected links to liquor consumption, while urging the government to undertake a “careful and honest relook” at the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NBCC said the deaths should not be allowed to pass as “another unfortunate incident”, and called for those responsible to be identified and held accountable under the law.
The Church body urged the government and Excise department to pursue the matter with urgency, diligence and impartiality, including efforts to identify those involved in the manufacture, supply, distribution or sale of illicit liquor.
The NBCC also called for stronger enforcement of the NLTP Act, saying its protective intent should not be weakened in practice.
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At the same time, it stated that the 1989 Act deserved a “careful and honest relook” in terms of its purpose, implementation and continuing relevance to the social and moral well-being of the people.
The council said the review could consider whether the Act should be retained, amended or repealed, while asserting that the Church's position on alcohol abuse would remain unchanged.
The NBCC added that it recognised the government's constitutional responsibility and remained committed to working with the authorities to strengthen implementation of the Act, address enforcement gaps and protect communities from the consequences of alcohol abuse.
It, however, stressed that such cooperation should not be mistaken for a compromise of its conviction.
The Church body called for stringent legal action against bootleggers, suppliers, distributors and members of illicit networks found responsible for the deaths.
“There must be no room for negligence, collusion, illegal manufacture, distribution, or the exploitation of vulnerable people for profit,” it stated.
The NBCC maintained that alcohol abuse should not be viewed merely as an individual problem, pointing out that it could become a family crisis, public-health concern and social disorder.
It expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and said the Church would continue to work with people struggling with alcoholism and families affected by alcohol abuse.
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