Alcohol Sale at Hornbill Festival Sparks Debate

Why in the news?

The sale of alcohol at Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival has sparked protests from church bodies, amid discussions on revising the state’s prohibition law due to smuggling and health concerns.

Alcohol Sale at Hornbill Festival Sparks Debate

Controversial Decision to Allow Alcohol:

  • The sale of alcohol at Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival has sparked criticism from influential church bodies in the state.
  • The festival, a major cultural and tourism event, now permits the sale of local rice beer and Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL).
  • Church bodies argue that this contradicts the state’s long-standing prohibition under the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989.
  • The sale of alcohol, including rice beer, is a contested issue due to its cultural significance and clash with Christian beliefs, especially since 87% of Nagaland’s population is Christian.

Cultural vs. Religious Identity:

  • The Hornbill Festival aims to celebrate Naga culture and heritage, with rice beer being a traditional beverage in the community.
  • Organizers defend the sale of alcohol as an authentic representation of Naga culture, asserting that festivals should reflect the ethnic practices of the community.
  • However, critics, especially the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), argue that the decision undermines Christian values and promotes a wrong message about Naga identity.

Government’s Review of Prohibition Law:

  • The Nagaland government is considering revising the NLTP Act due to growing concerns over smuggling, spurious alcohol, and increasing narcotic use in the state.
  • Government officials, including Excise Advisor Moatoshi Longkumer, have pointed out that the intended goals of the prohibition law have not been met and have suggested regulating alcohol instead of complete prohibition.
  • A major factor behind the review is the loss of excise revenue caused by the ongoing prohibition, although this was not openly discussed by the government.

What is Hornbill Festival ?

  • Annual cultural event in Nagaland, started in 2000.
  • Celebrates the heritage and traditions of 14 Naga tribes.
  • Attracts large tourist crowds, with 54 lakh visitors in 2023, including 2,100 foreign tourists.

About Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989:

  • Imposes complete prohibition on alcohol sale and consumption in Nagaland.
  • Strongly supported by Christian organizations, including Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA).
  • Government considering a shift to regulated alcohol use.

Historical Context:

  • Alcohol consumption, including rice beer, was traditionally common among Naga people.
  • Christianity, especially American Baptists, influenced stricter moral codes against alcohol since the 1870s.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times