CADA organises sit-in against lifting ban on liquor at Ningthoukhong
Source: The Sangai Express

Bishnupur, September 26 2022: Denouncing the decision of the Cabinet to lift the prohibition on alcohol, Coalition Against Drugs and Alcohol (CADA) Bishnupur District in association with Ningthoukhong Keithel Phambi Ima Lup staged a sit-in-protest at Ningthoukhong market today.

Speaking to media persons, a member of Ningthoukhong Keithel Phambi Ima Lup expressed shock at the Government's decision and added that even with the prohibition, abuse of alcohol was rampant in society but with legalisation of alcohol the situation will become much worse.

Alleging that the Government had legalised alcohol with the excuse that they could not control its widespread abuse, she questioned if the Government had plans to legalise drugs as their next step.

The protester further appealed to the Chief Minister to roll back the decision to legalize liquor in the State.

Meanwhile, Apunba Nupi Lup (ANUL) Bishnupur also organised a press conference at its office in Bishnupur today to show its opposition to the Government's decision to partially lift the ban on brewing, consumption and sale of liquor.

Speaking at a press conference, ANUL secretary Lourembam Pramo stated that the press conference was organised to show ANUL's opposing stand with respect to the partial lifting of the alcohol prohibition by the Manipur Government.

Expressing shock and discontent, she questioned if the State cannot collect revenue through other avenues aside from alcohol.

She then highlighted various health and social problems caused by abuse of alcohol and urged the State Govt to revoke the lifting of alcohol ban.

Lourembam Pramo rued that the State Government had acted in stark contrast instead of aiding Manipuri women in their efforts to curb alcohol abuse which has been ongoing since 1970.Stating that ANUL and the people of Manipur will never change their opposing stand on this subject, she cautioned that a third 'Nupi Lan' might commence if the Government does not reverse the lifting of the alcohol ban.

She also suggested that the Government can earn revenue through mass plantation of fruits and vegetables in the hill as well as valley areas instead of turning its eye on revenue collection from alcohol legalization.

The press conference was also attended by N Bimola, vice president ANUL; M Anita, secretary; Kh Pramo, organisation secretary and various members of ANUL.

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