A drinking conundrum in Mizoram

As the state considers abolishing prohibition, the church tries to thwart the move

The Northeastern state of Mizoram has remained a dry state for most of its history. Nine years after its formation in 1987, the state government, with the backing of the church, issued laws prohibiting the sale or consumption of liquor. However, on 8 July 2014, when Mizoram’s state Assembly convenes for the monsoon session, the government is expected to introduce a new bill that will repeal prohibition. The move is expected to increase funds for the public coffers and curb deaths caused by spurious alcohol.

Six years ago, the law was amended to allow the sale and consumption of grape and guava wine. This was done for wine processing to be facilitated in the state. In 2011, apple, ginger, passion fruit, peach and pear wine were also added to the list. The proposed bill will allow the sale and consumption of all types of liquor. It is expected to be passed easily since the current Congress government won the state election last year with a big majority.

However, the church— which wields enormous clout within the state—has publically opposed the decision. Lalzuithanga, senior executive secretary of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod, says, “Prohibition has led to less crime, fewer accidents and the state is mostly peaceful. We will fight against any amendment to this rule.”

The church is going all out to halt the introduction of the bill. It has held meetings with legislators, brought up the issue in prayer services across the state, and is currently wooing various NGOs. This has led to a deep debate among people. Says Vanlalruata, general secretary of the Young Mizo Association, “On the one hand, there is the promise of freedom. But there is also the church and its argument over how alcohol is going to corrupt Mizo society. Many are worried that the police will be ill-equipped to deal with problems that might arise from allowing the sale of alcohol.”

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Lhendup G Bhutia

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