Actual, honest evaluation of NLTP Act needed: DGP Doungel

Our Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUNE 2

Director General of Police (DGP) Nagaland, LL Doungel on Tuesday underscored the need for an actual and honest evaluation on what the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act 1989 is all about without being too defensive or provocative, so as to bring it to a level where it translates into something implementable on ground.
Addressing the 13th Annual Literary Day of the Post Graduate Students’ Union (PGSU) of Nagaland University (Kohima Campus) at the State Academy Hall Kohima as the chief guest, Doungel lauded the students for choosing a socially relevant topic such as the NLTP Act for debate in their literary event. “In terms of domestic environment, the prohibition Act is one of the most important issues that is confronting our society today,” he said.
Sharing his views on the issue, the police chief feels that it will be worthwhile to evaluate whether the enforcement of the Act for so many years had been useful or counterproductive. “Any law is no good unless it is implemented, and if the implementation is not effective then it defeats the purpose of any statute,” he stated. Doungel pointed out the need to reflect on the reason for implementation of the Act, the implementation, and the end result, as to whether the objective is being achieved or not.
He observed that the Act was invoked on dual counts- one being the moralistic consideration of being a Christian state and having a Christian responsibility to prevent substance abuse which he feels is very noble, and the other being the potential of liquor having certain negative bearing on the society. However, a review of the Act will be required at this juncture, to check the “balance-sheet which shows how good or how badly we have done”, he stated metaphorically.
He asserted that taking a very moralistic view or to mount a moral highground and reiterate that prohibition should stay, without actually evaluating it taking into consideration the practicalities involved, will be unrealistic.
While stating that the police and excise personnel frequently make a lot of liquor seizures, he however feels that the report card is not so flattering. He said despite the NLTP Act, many cases of substance abuse, marital discords, domestic violence etc. are still largely prevalent in the society. Towards this, he questioned as to whether the root source has been addressed properly.
The DGP termed it a very good choice for students of the university to debate upon this issue and expressed hope that the event will be a beginning of a platform that will convey across arousing thoughts and opinions on the NLTP Act with an intellectual view.
Accountant General Nagaland, AP Chophy who was the guest of honour of the occasion, exhorted the gathering that they are living in a world where everything is very competitive. He stated that there is no room for complacency to be able to go out and compete with others. Achievements and degrees do not guarantee one a job, they merely make you eligible to compete, he said, and urged upon the students to use every opportunity to learn something.
While asserting that participation is very important, he lamented that Nagas are hesitant to step forward. “We are either shy, lack confidence or we feel we are not good enough,” he said, adding, “Unless you participate, how do you know if you are good at it?”
Also stressing on the need to be aware of one’s rights, the official called upon the student fraternity that as future leaders they have social responsibilities.
Citing some instances, he said the facilities that colleges and universities provide to students are because the latter are entitled to them and not given as a favour. He said many colleges in the state are supposed to provide indoor and outdoor stadiums and even swimming pool facilities to students as they get grants for the same. However in reality such facilities are not actually there in many cases. He said there are many sources of information these days and told students to be aware of “at least in your areas”.
“By being aware of your basic and social rights, you will be able to contribute to the society,” he said.
Debate, extempore, solo, choir and fancy dress competitions marked the event.