Besesayo Kezo, IPS
Retd DGP
Dimapur, the vibrant heart of Nagaland, pulsates with a unique energy. The state's only cosmopolitan city stands at the foothills, a confluence of cultures, ethnicities, and languages, a microcosm of India itself. Its strategic location, connected by air, rail, and road, has fuelled its economic and social growth, making it a crucial hub in Northeast India. But this very dynamism has also cast a long shadow, raising a fundamental question: Is Dimapur destined to be a modern-day Babylon, consumed by its challenges, or can it rise to become a Jerusalem, a beacon of hope and harmony?
While a source of richness, Dimapur's cosmopolitan character has also become a refuge for those seeking anonymity. Some are looking for a fresh start, but others are fleeing their pasts, including those entangled in criminal activities. While not representative of the majority, this influx contributes to a complex social tapestry. While many newcomers successfully integrate, some struggle, and a small minority, driven by old habits and emboldened by anonymity, engage in illicit activities, impacting the very society they seek to join. They become part of the city's undercurrent, a hidden stream that erodes the foundations of social order.
Dimapur's strategic location has also made it a focal point for illicit trade. Arms smuggling, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities flourish, exploiting the porous borders and complex socio-economic landscape. The city has earned a reputation, perhaps unfairly, as a hub for these activities, casting a pall over its legitimate businesses and hardworking residents. The presence of various insurgent groups, particularly Naga factions, further complicates the picture. Even with ongoing peace negotiations, the legacy of conflict and the potential for renewed instability remains a constant concern. The question lingers: Who are the players in these shadowy networks, and how can their influence be curtailed?
The allure of economic opportunity has drawn a diverse crowd to Dimapur, including those with less-than-honourable intentions. Unscrupulous individuals, domestic and international, seek to exploit the city's potential for personal gain, often disregarding ethical considerations and the community's well-being. Their actions tarnish Dimapur's image and undermine the efforts of those striving for honest and sustainable development. The city is wrestling with the consequences of unchecked ambition, where the pursuit of profit overshadows principles and integrity.
Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a comprehensive and nuanced approach. While advanced law enforcement techniques and technology are essential tools, they are not a magic bullet. Crime often has its roots in social and economic disparities, in feelings of marginalisation and injustice. Therefore, addressing these root causes is paramount. Open communication, community engagement, and proactive monitoring are crucial components of a holistic strategy. The police cannot be an occupying force; they must be partners in building a safer Dimapur.
A critical element in this transformation is the integration of newcomers into the community. A well-designed system for identifying and registering new residents is necessary to foster a sense of belonging and shared responsibility, not for discriminatory purposes. This should be done with respect for individual privacy and within the framework of the law. Those who refuse identification present a complex challenge that must be addressed carefully and thoughtfully. How can the community balance security concerns with individual rights?
Traditional policing methods remain valuable, such as the "Village Crime Note Book" system, where local leaders are engaged and constables conduct regular patrols. These practices build trust between law enforcement and the community, creating a sense of shared ownership in the fight against crime. Simultaneously, law enforcement must remain vigilant against evolving criminal tactics, including cybercrime, which knows no boundaries. They must have the skills and resources to confront these new threats.
The success of law enforcement ultimately hinges on public cooperation. Open communication, information sharing, and a sense of shared responsibility are essential. While law enforcement agencies must be held accountable and operate within legal and ethical boundaries, they cannot function effectively without community support. The people of Dimapur must become active participants in shaping their city's future, not passive observers.
Dimapur stands at a crossroads. It is a city of contrasts, where the shadows of "Babylon" mingle with the glimmer of "Jerusalem." The question is not whether Dimapur can change but how. Its numerous theological colleges and churches, representing many faiths, offer a powerful moral compass. These institutions can be vital in promoting ethical behaviour, community values, and social harmony. They can be centres of dialogue, reconciliation, and hope.
The transformation from "Babylon" to "Jerusalem" is not a destination but a journey, a continuous process of striving for a better future. It requires strong leadership, both within the government and the community. It demands a commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law. It necessitates a collective effort, where every resident takes responsibility for building a more just and equitable society.
Dimapur has the potential to shed its negative image and become a model city and a beacon of hope in Northeast India. This potential lies not only in its economic opportunities and strategic location but also in the resilience and spirit of its people. The choice between "Babylon" and "Jerusalem" rests with them. Will they allow the forces of darkness to prevail, or will they rise to the challenge and build a city where peace, prosperity, and justice reign? The answer will determine the future of Dimapur.
