In a significant move, the Nagaland Government has decided to revisit the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, with the possibility of partially lifting the prohibition in certain areas. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting held today at Nagaland Civil Secretariat Kohima. Briefing the media after the meeting, spokesperson of the state government K G Kenye highlighted the need to reconsider the NLTP Act, which has not been reviewed since its enactment over three decades.

Mr. Kenye emphasised addressing the critical issue of the unregulated inflow of illegal liquor, which poses serious health risks, particularly to the younger generation. He pointed out that the absence of regulatory mechanisms has given free rein to bootleggers, allowing them to smuggle in substandard and potentially harmful liquor.

While acknowledging the efforts of the church leaders and law enforcement in curbing the menace of alcohol, the state spokesperson noted that total prohibition has not succeeded in Nagaland, much like in other parts of the world.

Mr. Kenye also indicated that this issue could be brought up in the upcoming Assembly session, which is scheduled for the 27th of this month, for further discussion and possible amendments.