Kohima: Following the deaths of 10 people who drank poisonous liquor in Tuensang district of Nagaland state, the Director General of Police has issued a statewide alert.
In 1989, at the request of Christian and social organizations, the “Nagaland Total Prohibition Act” was enacted to reduce domestic violence and bring about social change, and it came into force in 1990. Initially, it was considered successful with the support of village councils and women’s organizations.
But after 35 years, Nagaland Excise Department adviser Mowatoshi Longkumer admitted in the Legislative Assembly that this law had failed.
It has also come to light that more than 500 illegal liquor shops are operating in Kohima city alone, and that the deaths of young people and the rise in addiction are being caused by counterfeit liquor smuggled in from the Assam border.
It was in this context that shocking news emerged that 10 people had died after drinking poisonous liquor in Tuensang district. Following this, Nagaland DGP Rupin Sharma issued a stern warning, asking the people of Tuensang and the other six districts, as well as those from other areas, not to consume alcohol until the situation returns to normal.
Meanwhile, the state Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said that the government cannot prevent an individual’s drinking habit and that liquor will be available as long as there is demand. At the same time, there is growing pressure to repeal the failed prohibition law and introduce a new licensing system with stricter rules, including age limits.