Share
Once again CFD is coming forward to request all the concerned authority to shut down all the liquor outlets in the state. The office bearers of the CFD appreciated the initiative taken by the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) and various CBOs against the supply of liquor in Nagaland. In this regard Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) also raises certain concerns for the need to strengthen and emphasize the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act 1989 in Nagaland. This is drawn in favour to reduce crime and corruption, solve social problems, reduce expenses and improve health and hygiene in general. Meanwhile, CFD also appreciates the Department of Excise, Govt. of Nagaland for their immediate and timely response towards the need of the people.
Though Nagaland was declared a dry state according to the NLTP Act 1989, it has been just in paper and not in action. Over the span of 30 years after it was passed, many CBOs and NGOs have been fighting ‘tooth and nails’ in order to uproot all evils of liquor and its implications throughout Nagaland. However, despite all efforts made, there have been loopholes and even seems to have more inflows and supplies.
Emphasising the biblical teaching from Ephesians 5:18, It encourages Christians to abstain from wine which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, but one to remain abstinent from such bring about desired changes for oneself and for others in the community. Alcohol has been a threat throughout, while having experienced untimely deaths, serious health complications, inhumane crimes, domestic violence, declining the quality of life, ill health, increase in road accidents, fatalities, social disturbances, law-order problems in society and broken families etc creating burden at our own cost. On the other side, it is very unfortunate that the situation cannot be contained yet; more of the people including youth and young people are getting involved in alcoholism. Economic growth was given more importance rather than the values of human lives. In fact, we need to refocus on the future generation in relation to this social prevalence, which at this rate would prove really fatal and vulnerable for our own people in the state. Thus, we appeal the government and relevant agencies to exert more legal obligation and strengthen the old-aged NLTP Act 1989.
CFD urge the right-thinking organizations and people to come forward for the noble initiative of anti-liquor movement which will eventually reduce violence, social conflicts, law and order issues and crimes. This will enable our communities to embrace qualitative livelihood and living standards which needs to be given importance.
Rev. Moses Murry, Chairman CFD;
Rev. Dr. CP Anto, Secretary CFD