Patton calls for united efforts to build equitable Nagaland

KOHIMA — Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, Y Patton, called for united efforts to build an equitable, harmonious and progressive Nagaland on Monday and observed that Nagaland is moving forward on its developmental journey.

He was speaking at the launch of the Nagaland Police outreach and civic action-cum-beat patrolling programme, as well as the virtual commissioning of a gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) instrument at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Dimapur, which was held at the Police Headquarters (PHQ) in Kohima.

He said that the Nagaland Police personnel have been committed to maintaining law and order and pursuing justice, going above and beyond their core duties to connect with the people and serve local communities, keeping in mind that building strong community relationships is an essential part of social harmony and national progress.

Noting that the outreach programme and civic action are intended to foster a positive police-public partnership based on mutual trust and cooperation to maintain a peaceful environment in the state, Patton said that the mobile canteen contingents will also serve as beat patrol parties, extending better policing to rural and otherwise underserved areas and instilling a sense of security in people.

He also added that the facility will keep a vigil on anti-social elements in rural areas through the involvement of DEFs, NAP, and IR Bn units of Nagaland Police.

Speaking about the newly commissioned GCMS instrument at FSL Dimapur, Patton expressed confidence that the facility will significantly improve forensic investigation capabilities and will greatly assist the police force and judiciary in gathering irrefutable evidence, delivering justice on time, and containing the drug menace.

He emphasised the police’s role as protectors and trusted partners for all citizens, stating that they must act with courage, integrity, and compassion. Patton also noted that to improve policing, citizens must respond with wisdom, empathy, and goodwill, defying those who spread hatred.

GCMS will clear backlogs — DGP

Earlier, DGP Rupin Sharma, in his speech, said that the commissioned GCMS instrument will help the state probe cases and carry out investigations at a better pace.

Sharma said that the state has been sending samples for testing outside, leading to delays in investigations. However, he mentioned that the new facility would aid the police in accelerating investigations and clearing backlogs.

According to him, pending tests from the last couple of years could now be completed within three months, as the testing process can be done within three hours.

Vilhousie Peseyie, Joint Director of FSL Dimapur, stated in a brief speech that the commissioning of GCMS marks another milestone in FSL Dimapur’s history and that the narcotic division at FSL Dimapur is now fully equipped to test all types of drugs and even identify unknown drugs.

Peseyie maintained that for efficient and functional use of the GCMS, two reliable air conditioners and a consistent power supply are essential. This includes acquiring an automatic generator as a backup power source, as well as obtaining the necessary chemicals, glassware, and other solutions.

In this regard, he appealed to Patton and DGP to look into the need.

Chiephobozou Police Station named the best in state

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, recognised Chiephobozou Police Station in Kohima district as the “Best Police Station of Nagaland” in the Annual Ranking of Police Stations for 2023.

Patton presented the award on the occasion to Sheta Lohe, SDPO (North) Kohima, in the presence of the DGP, legislators, and senior police officers.

Also read: Cabinet approved recruitment of constables — Patton