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DIMAPUR — Sazolie College, Kohima hosted its 17th Inter-Collegiate Debate Competition on the topic ‘NLTP Act is a boon for the Naga society’ at Vineizono Hall, Phezhü, Jotsoma, on Oct. 25.
Dr. Villo Naleo, associate professor at Shalom Bible Seminary, served as the critic in the competition which featured participation from 18 colleges across Nagaland, the college informed in an update.
The panel of judges includes Naro Imchen, associate professor from the Department of English, Kohima Science College; Khriebu Nakhro, convenor, Village Vision Cell, Jotsoma Village District Planning and Development Board; Kezhosano Kikhi, advocate, deputy legal aid defence counsel, Nagaland State Legal Services Authority.
Dr. Naleo highlighted why the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act has become a contentious issue, citing numerous reasons for its challenges and perceived failures.
He proposed strategies for improving its effectiveness, suggesting that Nagaland could benefit from studying successful prohibition models in other countries. He also emphasised the Act’s positive social impact to date and its potential for better outcomes with enhanced implementation.
Proponents of the NLTP Act highlighted its role in reducing alcohol consumption and related social issues, such as domestic violence, crime, and health concerns, while promoting moral values.
They noted alcohol’s harmful impact on the social fabric and argued that the Act has helped curb addiction, suggesting that further refinement and stronger enforcement could boost its effectiveness.
The opposition argued that the Prohibition Act presents challenges in regulating alcohol consumption, leading to increased illegal activities such as bootlegging and black-market sales, along with economic losses and corruption within law enforcement.
They contended that the Act has not eliminated alcohol use, as smuggling and low-quality liquor remain prevalent, posing risks to consumers.
Additionally, they viewed the Act as an infringement on personal freedom, asserting that improved regulation could better address social issues.
“The debate made it clear that while the act has its share of success in certain areas, there are other significant challenges to its effectiveness in other aspects,” it stated.
Ricky Das from Modern College won the first position, while Walonir Jamir from Model College was placed second and T Lamdang from Japfü Christian College, third. The winners received cash prizes of INR 15,000, INR 10,000, and INR 7,500, respectively.
Five consolation prizes of INR 1,000 each were awarded to Vekhrüzo Nyekha from Oriental College, Limugha Achumi from Platinum College, Phushically A Achumi from Sazolie College, Y Yongkai Phom from Sao Chang College, and Imkongsanen from St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama.
Earlier, Dr. Gopal Chetri, principal of Sazolie College, delivered the welcome address.