At least 438 alcohol-related deaths, including 77 women, have been reported in Mizoram during the past ten months since April last year, as informed by the state Health Minister Lalrinpuii. In response to a query by a Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) MLA, the Minister stated that 361 men and 77 women died due to alcohol-related issues between April last year and January this year.
The earlier Mizo National Front (MNF) government had introduced the Mizoram Liquor Prohibition Act, 2019 to address the misuse of alcohol and drugs, fulfilling an election promise. However, due to revenue crunch, the current Chief Minister Lalduhoma has announced a review of the Act.
Despite the prohibition, illegal manufacture and sale of local liquor continue to operate in the outskirts of Aizawl and other parts of the city. These unscientifically manufactured liquors are unhygienic and unsafe for human consumption.
In addition to alcohol-related deaths, consumption of drugs has also led to fatalities in the state. Since January last year until February this year, 86 people, including 13 women, have died due to drug consumption. The drugs involved include heroin, methamphetamine tablets (locally known as Yaba or party tablets), and various other drugs smuggled in from Myanmar. These drugs have a high demand in northeastern states, as well as other parts of India and neighboring Bangladesh.
