The Mizoram government is preparing to introduce a bill that will allow the sale of beer and wine in the state, despite the existing prohibition laws. This bill is set to be presented in the state assembly today (Wednesday). Once passed, it will permit the sale of alcoholic beverages made from locally produced fruits and rice. A government official has confirmed this development. However, Chief Minister Lalduhoma has clarified that there are no plans to lift the overall prohibition on liquor sales in the state.
Amendment Bill to be Introduced in Assembly
The ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government will bring an amendment bill to revise the Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Act, 2019. Departmental Minister Lalnghihlova Hmar will introduce the bill, which aims to legalize the sale, distribution, and production of beer and wine made from local ingredients. However, this privilege will be limited to licensed vendors only. Additionally, the bill seeks to permit the sale of traditional Mizo liquor, often referred to as country liquor.
Government’s Stand on Liquor Sales
After presenting the 2025-26 budget in the Assembly, Chief Minister Lalduhoma stated that his government would not allow the opening of liquor shops. Instead, the state will regulate the sale of locally brewed alcoholic beverages. He emphasized that churches were consulted on this matter and had given their approval for the proposed changes.
Past Reviews and Prohibition History
In March 2024, the government announced plans to review the state’s liquor prohibition laws, which currently prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol. While there have been demands from various sectors to lift the liquor ban and reopen liquor shops, the Chief Minister reaffirmed that the government would not entertain such requests.
Mizoram has had a complex history with liquor prohibition. The state initially allowed liquor shops in 1984 under the Mizoram Prohibition Act of 1973 but shut them down again in 1987. A complete alcohol ban was enforced in 1997 under the Mizoram Total Liquor Prohibition Act of 1995. However, in 2015, a new law was introduced, permitting liquor sales. Later, the Mizo National Front (MNF) government reinstated the ban in 2019 as part of its electoral promise.
The upcoming amendment bill represents a significant shift in Mizoram’s liquor policy, balancing the prohibition law with controlled access to locally produced beer and wine.
