Reported by Bhadra Gogoi
Dimapur: Nagaland has witnessed a rise in reported cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, increasing from seven cases in 2022 to 15 cases in 2025, Dimapur Commissioner of Police Aotula T. Imchen said on Wednesday. During the same period, the number of traced missing children reached 216 in 2025.
Speaking at the monthly Dimapur District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall, Imchen noted that a significant number of missing-child cases were linked to children running away from home or elopement-related incidents.
She urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and identify early warning indicators such as frequent absenteeism, school dropouts and noticeable behavioural changes among children, which could make them more susceptible to exploitation and abuse.
Highlighting the initiatives undertaken by the police to promote child safety and protect the rights of girls and children in the district, Imchen stressed the need for stronger coordination among agencies involved in child welfare. She called for an integrated child protection framework bringing together the police, Childline, welfare departments, educational institutions, healthcare providers and community leaders.
According to Imchen, clearly defined responsibilities, prompt referrals, regular coordination meetings, and efficient information-sharing mechanisms are crucial to ensuring timely support for vulnerable children. She emphasized that fostering a culture of prevention, accountability, confidentiality, and collective responsibility is essential for safeguarding children’s rights, dignity, and overall well-being.
The meeting also reviewed the issue of growing traffic congestion in Dimapur. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Meren Chenth delivered a PowerPoint presentation outlining the challenges and proposed measures to improve traffic management in the district.
Imchen commended the efforts of the DCP (Traffic) and the Naga Council Dimapur for putting forward recommendations aimed at easing congestion. She informed the meeting that the proposals would be forwarded to the competent authorities for consideration and approval in the public interest.