Community group calls for ‘reinforcing’ NLTP

Our Correspondent Mokokchung, Nov. 2 (EMN): A community group from Mokokchung called the ‘Ashiponger Foundation’ conducted a programme marking its rising day on Saturday at the Artang Baptist Church in Mokokchung. During the event, appeals to ‘reinforce’ the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act (NLTP) were made. The Ashiponger Foundation is a nongovernmental organisation based in Mokokchung, and founded by people recovering from alcoholism. The group aims to help people battling alcoholism and to work in leading those affected onto the ‘right path.’ During the programme, a church leader, Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger gave a short speech. He asserted that when it comes to the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act the government is more focused ‘in terms of revenue.’ After the implementation of the NLTP Act, he asserted, many alcoholics were ‘saved.’ To implement the NLTP Act successfully though, he said, there is a need for ‘willpower’ among the officers. Also, an extra additional commissioner for Mokokchung, Sentilong, acknowledged the organisation for its  work. With the passage of time in tackling alcoholism in the society, he observed, the ways to addressing it today  has also changed. ‘Like the three-stone fire, if the authority, church, and family are strong, then the society’s movement is forward,’ he said. Alemla Mozer, secretary for women ministry, preached at the event. She said recovery from alcoholism has not only brought happiness to the family but to all their near and dear ones around them. In this connection, Mozer said that the only work for them now is to spread the testament of love to the world. Changsen Pongen, founder of the group said that the foundation was started by four people. Now it has expanded to 18 members currently.  He appealed for ‘reinforcement’ of  the NLTP particularly in Mokokchung as pledged by the ABAM to eradicate alcohol from the society. Pongen’s appeal received support from others at the programme.