Prohibition to continue in Mizoram

The controversial draft Mizoram Liquor Prohibition Control (MLPC) Bill, 2014 was to replace the Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition (MLTP) Act.

Aizawl:  The total prohibition of alcohol in Mizoram will continue for some more time, as state government will not table a draft bill aimed at replacing existing law prohibiting the use of liquor.

The controversial draft Mizoram Liquor Prohibition Control (MLPC) Bill, 2014 was to replace the Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition (MLTP) Act.

Influential Christian groups in the state have opposed the draft bill demanding not to lift prohibition, making the draft bill a controversial one. Media reports said the government was planning to table the bill in the Assembly budget session that begins on March 18.

“This is because Election Model Code of Conduct has come into effect for the MP election,” Excise & Narcotics commissioner, Lalhmunsanga said.

In response to media query, Lalhmunsanga said, “The MLPC Bill has been verified by the Law department too, and that after necessary correction made, it will be ready for circulation.”

The Mizoram Assembly budget session, which has been scheduled for March 18 to April 3, is also known to be shortened to just three-days due to the Lok Sabha election, sources added.

Sources mentioned that in the budget session this time, interim budget for 4 months (April-July) shall be passed by Vote-on-Account. For tabling of full budget, budget session is expected to be called in the month of July.

Source: Mizonews