Dimapur, October 21 (MExN): Senior Naga leader and former minister K Therie has asserted that the State Government, the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), and Naga underground organisations are collectively responsible for the complete failure of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, calling for a decisive public mandate to determine whether the prohibition should be lifted or continued.
In a public statement issued on Wednesday, Therie highlighted that at least 23 deaths—including cases in Mokokchung and Tuensang districts—have been linked to methanol poisoning from illicit, spurious liquor during September and October 2026.
He cautioned that more than 50% of youth mortality in the state is related to spurious alcohol and addiction, with tens of thousands succumbing to alcohol-related illnesses or suffering from chronic health issues, dragging Nagaland's average life expectancy down to 75 years compared to global highs like Monaco's 89.7 years.
Flourishing black market and underground tax
Therie claimed that despite the prohibition, spurious alcohol is flowing freely into every village. In urban areas, more than 5,000 outlets are estimated to operate, with over 2,000 outlets located in Dimapur alone. He alleged that this illegal trade is encouraged by Naga underground groups, with monthly collections from taxation exceeding ₹10 to ₹12 crores.
Furthermore, he criticized the State Government for viewing the NLTP Act merely as a tool to control transportation rather than addressing it from public health, economic, and familial perspectives. He alleged that bonded warehouse licenses issued to manage supplies for paramilitary forces are being misused to transport truckloads of alcohol across Nagaland.
Critique of enforcement and policy
While acknowledging that the NJCF has consistently protested against lifting the NLTP Act and demanded its strict enforcement, Therie noted that several organizations have countered this stance by demanding its revocation due to its dismal failure. He termed the seasonal issuing of liquor permits during the Hornbill Festival as a mere test by the government.
Condemning current enforcement tactics, Therie stated that punishing petty traders trying to earn a livelihood by destroying thousands of cases of alcohol before the media—while allowing bonded warehouse licensees to transport huge truckloads unchecked—is a crime against humanity that harms only the poor.
Proposals for Reform
Calling for comprehensive societal and structural reforms, Therie advocated for enforcing the law of the land while educating the public on discipline, decency, and manners, while also providing rehabilitation and training for youth for professional service.
Implementing strict disciplinary measures for public servants, mandating that all government employees addicted to alcohol be sent to reformatory schools for a term of not less than two years, where they can serve as trainers and learners alike.
"Only a strong mandate can decide. Whether to lift or continue the NLTP Act is a question before the State Government and Naga Undergrounds," Therie concluded.
