New Delhi (Agency): Nagaland, one of India’s northeastern states, has made headlines recently due to its impressive record of maintaining low crime rates, especially crimes against women. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio takes pride in the state’s achievement and has shared the reasons behind it.
Chief Minister Rio believes that the unique character traits of the Naga people play a crucial role in maintaining peace and law in the state. He said, “The Nagas are known for their integrity, upright nature, truthfulness, and hard work.” These qualities, combined with the state’s effective customary law and a robust traditional community system, ensure that individuals at various community levels can intervene and resolve issues, thereby preventing crimes.
The combination of the community’s integrity and the effectiveness of local laws is evident in the police stations’ low number of recorded cases. Rio explained this during a special event at the North Kohima police station, Nagaland’s oldest. He inaugurated 16 CCTV cameras in seven police stations of Kohima district during this occasion.
Chief Minister Rio sees the installation of CCTV cameras as a significant step towards modernizing the Nagaland police force. He emphasized, “The installation of the CCTVs will make transparent happening in the police stations.” He believes that these cameras will ensure both the police and civilians remain accountable for their actions, as they are under constant observation. Such measures will foster trust between the police and the public, reducing fears and allegations against the force. Rio highlighted that a CCTV has already been set up in the women’s police station in Kohima, and soon, 73 police stations across the state’s 15 districts will have similar installations.
Another pressing concern for the state is the use and trafficking of narcotic drugs. The chief minister revealed that the state’s cabinet would discuss this matter soon, aiming to release an official statement. He expressed hope that various agencies, including the police and excise departments, would collaborate to combat drug trafficking.
Acknowledging the central government’s role, Rio expressed gratitude towards the union ministry of home affairs. They sanctioned a sum of Rs 3.83 crore for the CCTV project, aligning with the Supreme Court’s direction from December 2022.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, present during the CCTV inauguration, also shared his perspective. He stated that installing CCTV cameras in police stations would deter any potential misuse of power and help safeguard basic human rights. Patton believes these measures will not only reduce custodial torture but also instill transparency within the police’s work culture. “Most importantly,” Patton emphasized, “it will give a sense of security to the common public to approach the police for reporting crimes.”