The Mokokchung District Police have set a commendable example by voluntarily releasing the crime report for 2023 and 2024. This act of transparency not only highlights their commitment to public accountability but also builds trust between law enforcement and the community. Such openness deserves applause and can serve as a blueprint for other departments to emulate.
The crime report, shared by Senior Superintendent of Police, reveals interesting trends in the district’s crime landscape. While the total number of registered cases and arrests declined in 2024 compared to 2023, the data highlights both areas of progress and emerging concerns. For instance, cases under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) dropped from 43 in 2023 to 33 in 2024, reflecting a notable improvement in general law and order. Similarly, the sharp decline in cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act – from 32 in 2023 to 11 in 2024 – is a testament to the police department’s success in combating drug-related offenses.
However, the report also raises important points for reflection. The rise in cases under the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, though concerning, provides an opportunity to address these issues proactively. The increase in traffic penalties from Rs 24,000 in 2023 to Rs 59,300 in 2024 highlights the department’s enhanced enforcement of traffic regulations, a step that could deter violations and improve road safety in the long run.
By sharing this data, the Mokokchung Police have paved the way for informed public discourse. Transparency in governance empowers citizens and encourages collaborative problem-solving, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the community’s well-being. Other departments in Mokokchung should take inspiration from this initiative and adopt similar practices of data sharing. For example, the various departments could release reports on their respective performances, resource allocations, and challenges. Such reports would not only keep the public informed but also provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to devise targeted strategies.
Regular data sharing enhances accountability, builds public trust, and strengthens the bond between institutions and the community they serve. It also enables constructive criticism and innovation by allowing external experts to analyze trends and suggest improvements.
If Mokokchung strives for holistic development, the willingness of its police department to embrace transparency is a beacon of hope. Let this initiative be a stepping stone for a more open, data-driven governance model across all sectors, ensuring that the community thrives on informed decision-making and collective progress. The Mokokchung Police deserve our appreciation, not just for their performance, but for their courage to lead by example in promoting a culture of data sharing.