Dimapur, October 15: Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Dimapur have renewed calls to lift the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, at least within Dimapur district, citing the legislation’s failure and its negative impact on public health and safety.

The demand was made during a joint consultative meeting of CSOs on 14 October under the banner of the Naga Council Dimapur (NCD), which was attended by representatives from the Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF), Naga Women Hoho Dimapur, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU), Gaon Bura Union Dimapur Sadar, Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Business Association of Nagas, Dimapur District Citizens Forum, and Eastern Naga Women Organisation Dimapur.

Speaking at a press conference, NCD President GK Rengma stated that the demand was not new, referencing previous representations submitted to the Governor in 2023 by the DUCCF and other CSOs. “Why did we convene today to reiterate our earlier demand? It is because of the failure of the NLTP Act. What has it achieved since 1989?” Rengma asked, highlighting the widespread availability of alcohol across Dimapur’s 97 recognised urban localities, the absence of quality control, and the rise in drug abuse.

The CSOs emphasised that their demand is motivated by public welfare rather than revenue generation or religious considerations. DUCCF President Zasivikho Zakiesato noted that the meeting outlined a roadmap for renewed advocacy, including broader consultations with civil society groups, in line with the Chief Minister’s directive in the 2024 Assembly. DNSU General Secretary Michael Kath added, “The Act is meaningless where alcohol is readily accessible. It appears that increasing numbers of young people are turning to drugs as a result.”