NBCC calls for effective implementation of NLTP Act

December 16, 2020 173 Views No Comment

DIMAPUR, DEC 15 (NPN): Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has reminded Church on the need to collaborate with various stakeholders to develop practical strategies to effectively implement the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition ACT (NLTP) 1989.

Delivering his keynote address at the consultative meeting cum pre-Christmas programme, jointly organized by Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) and Joint Christian Forum Nagaland (JCFN), at Bethesda Higher Secondary School, Walford Colony, here Tuesday, the NBCC general secretary and JCFN chairman Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho said NLTP Act was an important issue which the church needed to discuss and work together with the experts, civil society groups and government to implement the Act scientifically and effectively.

He also admitted that both the government and the church have failed to act upon the Act systematically and effectively but added that the Church cannot hold on the Act without doing anything systematically, professionally and intelligently. He also opined that Church needs to take criticism positively and constructively.

Dr.Keyho said that the “time has come for all of us” especially the Churches, government, civil society organisations to work together to make the dream of the people of Nagaland a reality.

Also, speaking at the programme, retired commissioner excise Moangwati Aier reminded that Nagaland was not the only state in India where liquor is prohibited.

Presenting the statistics of various states in India after prohibition of liquor, Maongwati said that states like Kerala, Gujarat, Manipur, Mizoram and Bihar were effectively implementing the Act. He said that the states were performing better than Nagaland because they have very stringent measures where defaulters were severely punished. He explained the challenges and issues besides strategies to combat the issue effectively.

CIHSR director Dr. Sedevi Angami presented facts on hazards of alcohol and its effects on the life of the individuals and the society. He also presented various strategies to help the Churches and civil society to fight the issue effectively. In order to effectively implement the Act , Dr.Angami said Nagaland needed to have good governance, dynamic leadership in the local and state level.

Rev. James Ngullie highlighted the initiatives, activities and various programmes conducted by various Churches in response to the NLTP ACT.
Ps. Yanbemo Lotha highlighted various youth related issues, challenges and how to respond positively to resolve the issues by various churches in the state. Rev. Moses Murry spoke on behalf of the Churches’ response to the political situation of the state.

At the event, the house decided to pray for unity and reconciliation among all the political groups to come together and work for lasting peace and sustainable development.

Short speeches were delivered by Naga Women Hoho represented by Elis.Z.Swu, Dimapur Naga Student Union represented by Nupato K. Chishi and Nagaland NGO Forum represented by Dr. Hesheto.

A Christmas message was brought by Rev. Fr. Chacko Karinthayil . Earlier, Rev. Dr. P. Dozo, advisor CFD pronounced invocation while Ps. Lanu Akum gave the benediction. CFD women committee secretary Rita Kikon chaired the programme while the session was moderated by CFD secretary Dr. Fr. C.P Anto.

The consultative meeting was held with an objective to discuss on various issues i.e. Church response to NLTP Act 1989, Church response to Unemployment and Youth Issues in Nagaland, Church response to Present Political situation in Nagaland.

The programme was attended by around 46 representatives from various women, youth, churches, civil society organizations etc.

The consultative meeting ended with a plan of action and to form a participatory and inclusive working committee under the leadership of Moangwati Aier.

Source: http://www.nagalandpost.com/nbcc-calls-for-effective-implementation-of-nltp-act/226200.html