A Staff Reporter
Dimapur, March 30
To keep criminals and their activities at bay, Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras with police outposts would be installed at all important locations and colonies of Dimapur in the coming months.
CCTV is a TV system in which signals are not publicly distributed but are monitored, primarily for surveillance and security purposes. CCTV relies on strategic placement of cameras, and observation of the camera’s input on monitors somewhere.
This was disclosed by the Nagaland’s Home Minister Y Patton at a program marking the launch of the CCTV facility at the New Market in Dimapur, on Wednesday, March 30.
During the occasion, Patton assured to provide a police outpost at the New Market within April 15 ‘on the condition the business community could provide space to house them.’ Patton termed the day a ‘red-letter’ event for the business owners of New Market area and in general, the business community of Dimapur. The new technological facility to aid in their businesses can offer ‘new hope and comfort’ to their members, the politician said.
Stating that criminals and anti-social elements have become ‘more expert in their profession’ with modern technology. Business establishments, public places and even private homes have become vulnerable to threats from them, Y Patton said. He emphasized that in such situation ‘it is crucial to take security seriously. With increased rate of crimes and burglary, it important to consider the available security options and choose one that is best fit for us,’ he said.
In this context, Patton said that one of the most popular and cost effective ways of providing security was through the use of CCTV cameras.
They can act as ‘successful deterrent to thieves and burglars,’ he asserted. The very presence of CCTV systems in place can make a would-be criminal think twice about attempting any wrongdoing ‘because he would not want to rob or vandalise a store or office knowing that his acts were being recorded.’
Besides recording footage of criminals, CCTV could also keep employees away from mischief and also inculcate discipline.
Also, the Home minister said that the government planned to install CCTV cameras at strategic locations of the state ‘particularly in major towns and locations to contain law and order situation as well as to check on criminal activities.’ He expressed hope that the initiative of the New Market Business Owners’ Association would tremendously lighten the burden of the district administration and police in curbing anti-social activities in future.
Also speaking during the event, Commissioner of Dimapur Police, Liremo Lotha said that installing CCTVs would benefit police investigation. While assuring all possible assistance from the police in redressing the problems faced by the business community, Lotha sought cooperation.
Representatives from the ACAUT, Naga Council of Dimapur, Naga Women Hoho of Dimapur, GBs’ Union, the DUCCF and DNSU also spoke during the event.
The CCTV cameras at New Market were an initiative of the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industries and New Market Business Owners’ Association.
