Two tales of a city

Once hailed as the jewel of Nagaland and the emerald of the northeast, Dimapur now faces a stark reality. This vibrant, cosmopolitan city, which once outpaced Guwahati until the mid-80s, has faded into a shadow of its former self. Its status as a commercial hub is under threat, a transformation wrought by economic neglect and rampant lawlessness. In the mid-80s, Dimapur experienced a significant boom, establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing cities after Guwahati. However, this initial surge was short-lived. Two primary factors- economic neglect and a pervasive lawlessness syndrome- have overshadowed its once-promising growth. This phenomenon is not unique to Dimapur; many cities face similar issues. However, for Dimapur, the turning point came with the influx of both internal and external migrants. The growing significance of the floating population and the rise of leaders with narrow, hegemonistic visions have contributed to the gradual de-cosmopolitanization of Dimapur. The complexity of policing a city with over two lakh residents, including a large transient population, has further compounded the problem. Today, the city’s commercial growth is stifled by numerous apex bodies, factions, and organizations that regularly issue press statements affecting the lives of ordinary people. This leaves residents confused about who is truly in charge. The gradual deterioration of the environment affecting trade and commerce in Dimapur is a cause for deep concern for the state and its public. A sub-culture has emerged, complicating efforts to promote progressive economic growth in what was once the commercial capital of Nagaland. Since the early 90s, Dimapur has struggled with criminals patronized by various sections, leading to compromised law enforcement. About a decade ago, public consultations on community policing were held, but these efforts were not sustained. One of the apex tribal organizations in Dimapur took a significant step a year ago by resolving to deal with community members involved in criminal activities. This organization publicly declared its intention to impose traditional and customary laws on those involved in crimes, signaling a bold and significant decision. Other tribal organizations must seriously ponder this issue and contemplate effective responses to crimes committed by their members. Naga society is inherently tribal, and if communities resolve to address erring members, it could make a substantial difference. The broader issue of societal criminalization has tragically destroyed peace and progress in Dimapur, making lawlessness its defining characteristic. The solution lies in the unwavering application of the rule of law, devoid of any political or other influences. The government, regardless of which party is in power, must ensure that policing is not reduced to mere tokenism. Failure to do so risks turning Dimapur into a failed state. Addressing this problem requires understanding it from legal, institutional, moral, cultural, and religious perspectives. Fighting crime is not a one-time effort nor can it be measured by the success of a few cases; it is a continuous process necessary to ensure the safety of citizens and the prevalence of the rule of law under all circumstances. Dimapur exemplifies how a diverse and vibrant culture can turn inward and become a den of illegal activities, driving away skilled labor and entrepreneurs. If this situation is not reversed then Dimapur is doomed to meet a fate it does not deserve. There is no option but to ensure that the once-envied city reclaim its essence and ethos for the sake of the future generations.