Nagaland CSOs renew push to lift liquor ban in Dimapur

Civil society organisations in Dimapur have renewed their demand to lift the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act of 1989 in the district, submitting a fresh representation to the deputy commissioner on 6 October. The Naga Council Dimapur and its repeal committee led the move, saying repeated pleas to the state government had drawn no action. The Nagaland Post reports that a survey found over 2,000 illegal liquor outlets in and around Dimapur, and the CSOs have proposed a one-year trial of regulated sales with an 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. window, a minimum age of 23, and Aadhaar-based purchase limits.

The Morung Express adds that the memorandum, addressed to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, argues the 36-year-old prohibition has failed its public health and social welfare goals, fuelling an illicit trade and black market. The CSOs estimate Dimapur alone could generate Rs 150 crore annually in excise revenue under a regulated, taxed framework. The deputy commissioner confirmed receipt and said the representation would be forwarded to higher authorities. The NCD said it has set no deadline for a response but will decide a future course if no action follows.