Dimapur Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship opposes ‘repeal’ of NLTP Act 1989

DIMAPUR — The Dimapur Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship (DBPF) has unequivocally opposed the “proposed repeal” of the NLTP Act 1989 by the Government of Nagaland.

In a press release, the DBPF said that despite the comprehensive framework outlined in the NLTP Act, its enforcement has been inadequate as the government’s “visible efforts” to uphold the provisions of this law have been minimal.

“As a Church community, we acknowledge our responsibility to uphold biblical moral principles and ethics. Simultaneously, we emphasise that the primary responsibility for law enforcement lies with the state machinery. The government should ensure that the NLTP Act be wholeheartedly enforced,” the forum said.

The forum also said that the reconsideration of the NLTP Act appears to be rooted in the belief that consuming quality liquor is preferable to consuming adulterated liquor, and that revenue from liquor sales is the primary source of income for the Christian state.

Also read: Nagaland government mulls partial lifting of contentious NLTP Act

“However, profiting from liquor sales at the expense of our community’s well-being is neither sustainable nor ethical,” the DBPF affirmed and urged the government to explore alternative industries that can generate revenue and employment opportunities without compromising the future of the youth.

Maintaining that there are numerous avenues that do not compromise community health, the forum expressed strong discontent with the current non-implementation of the NLTP Act and the shift towards making liquor readily accessible to the public without considering its long-term adverse impact on the state.

“We insist that the government take proactive measures to enforce this legislation. We advocate for the establishment of necessary offices and the recruitment of personnel dedicated to implementing the NLTP Act, as the inadequacy of the department has been highlighted by the concerned Advisor to various news channels,” the release stated.

Further, the DBPF insisted that the government should take action against the “evident locations” where liquor is openly or discreetly sold.

“Specifically, we request the prohibition of liquor sales during the Hornbill Festival at Kisama to preserve the integrity of this cultural event.

“In this manner, we can collectively safeguard our society and nurture a healthier future for upcoming generations,” the forum added.