Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma has directed all village councils under Mokokchung district to remain vigilant and closely monitor suspected liquor-related activities following reports of deaths and hospitalisations linked to the suspected consumption of spurious liquor in Mangkolemba Sub-Division and other parts of the district.
In an order issued on October 17, the Deputy Commissioner cited the public health alert and the provisions of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1989, which prohibits the transport, sale, storage, distribution and manufacture of liquor. The order came into immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.
All village councils have been directed to promptly report any suspected sale, transportation, storage or distribution of liquor within their respective jurisdictions to the concerned Area Administrative Officer and police authorities for necessary action.
They have also been instructed to immediately report incidents involving suspected consumption of spurious or illicit liquor, particularly cases resulting in illness, hospitalisation or death, to the concerned authorities.
The order further calls on village councils to extend full cooperation to the district administration, police and other enforcement agencies in the ongoing enforcement drive and implementation of strict measures.
Village councils have also been directed to sensitise the public against purchasing or consuming liquor in view of the prevailing public health concerns.
Highlighting the need for prompt medical intervention, the Deputy Commissioner instructed village councils to ensure that anyone exhibiting symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, difficulty in breathing, nausea, severe abdominal pain or loss of consciousness following liquor consumption receives immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility. Such cases must also be promptly reported to the concerned authorities.
The order directed all village councils to treat the matter with utmost seriousness and urgency and ensure the prompt communication of any information requiring urgent intervention.