Sir,

More than a decade ago, greatly pressurized by the women and the ‘Naga Mothers’ movement,’ Nagaland became a dry state, despite the fact that, most Nagas, just like other normal people, appreciate a few drops of booze now and then.

But this stupid prohibition has become a joke. It is an open secret that liquor flows throughout Nagaland despite measures to tighten the dry law. Nagaland is perhaps among the wettest states in the region in sharp contrast to the dry law, supposed to be in force.

VVIP and VIP functions, especially the  parties of the rich and famous are not complete without the choicest of liquor. This comes both as a pleasant surprise, but also a shock to many visitors from outside Nagaland.

Liquor of all types, both foreign made and brands produced within India including beverages like beer, champagne, cognac etc are available for a price.

There is no place in Dimapur where liquor, beer or wine of any make is not available for a price. Everyone knows that, especially those who are regular customers.

In Dimapur, one has to act like a dubious character to buy liquor in any of the numerous joints.

However, recently, there was a small news item about a store in Dimapur that has hit upon a bold idea of doing business without fear or favour by openly selling choicest wines displayed on the shelf. The wines are priced from Rs. 1500-1700.

Liquor or beer is available in plenty at nearby Khatkhati  (Assam, Karbi Anglog district) where lakhs of rupees are transacted each day. In fact, regular clients of the bars and wine stores in Khatkhati are from nearby Nagaland and it is no secret.

So for people who want to wet their whistles  in newly dry Bihar, take heart. The lesson is a law is no law if it goes against what the people really want.

Yours Truly,

Bru Lover

(recently returned from a Nagaland Holiday)

[as usual, the views expressed are entirely those of the author, and not necessarily those of Newsnet One]

  letters, Northeast