The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has urged the Nagaland government to ensure strict and uniform enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, alleging widespread violations of the law across the state and warning that it may launch democratic action if authorities fail to act.
In a representation submitted to the Chief Secretary, the federation expressed concern over what it described as the rampant operation of illegal bars, liquor outlets, night clubs serving alcohol and bootlegging networks despite the prohibition law remaining in force.
The NSF stated that while discussions on possible policy reforms or amendments to the Act may be underway, the NLTP Act continues to be the law of the land and must be enforced until amended or repealed by the State Legislature.
Alleging that illegal establishments continue to operate openly in several districts and urban centres, the federation claimed that the continued violations had undermined public confidence in the rule of law. It also expressed concern over the alleged growth of organised bootlegging networks, saying the illicit liquor trade has contributed to crime, corruption, public disorder and social problems.
The federation further questioned what it termed the failure of the enforcement machinery to curb the illegal liquor trade and called for coordinated enforcement drives involving the district administrations, Police Department, Excise Department and other competent authorities against all those engaged in activities prohibited under the NLTP Act.
The NSF urged the government to identify and prosecute offenders without fear or favour and ensure uniform implementation of the prohibition law across the state.
Warning of further action, the federation said it would be compelled to initiate its own democratic course of action if the present situation continued, adding that the government and the concerned authorities would be responsible for any consequences arising from continued failure to enforce the law.
There was no immediate response from the state government at the time of filing this report.
