NAMCHI: The Sikkim Police organised Public Outreach Programme, “Building Bonds,” at the Jubilee Hall of Loyola College of Education, Namchi, on September 22, with the objective of fostering stronger community interaction and promoting awareness among students and the public.
The programme commenced with a Guard of Honour accorded to Director General of Police (DGP), Sikkim, Mr Akshay Sachdeva, by an all-women contingent of police personnel. Appreciating the contingent the DGP highlighted their participation as a representation of women’s empowerment and the increasing role and contribution of women in the police force.
Addressing the gathering, the DGP highlighted the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Sikkim and encouraged the youth to take an active role in preserving and promoting their traditions. He stressed the importance of taking pride in one’s own culture while extending equal respect to others, emphasising that no culture or community should be considered superior or inferior. He called for greater understanding, mutual respect and unity among different communities, while urging the people to value and preserve Sikkim’s diverse cultural identity.
He further stated that building a better and harmonious society requires moving away from notions of superiority and inferiority based on caste or culture. Also, he appreciated the initiative of Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang to observe Traditional Attire Day, under which government offices and educational institutions are encouraged to wear traditional attire once a week, as an effort towards preserving and promoting Sikkim’s cultural identity.
As part of the programme, police personnel, students and teachers participated in a series of role-play demonstrations conducted under the guidance of the DGP. The presentations included “Good Cop–Bad Cop” and “Good Public–Bad Public” scenarios, illustrating the consequences of responsible and irresponsible conduct by law enforcement personnel and members of the public, and their wider impact on society. Other demonstrations focused on Peer Group Reinforcement and Drug Addiction, highlighting the adverse consequences of narcotics and substance abuse and the importance of responsible decision-making.
The role-play presentations also addressed key issues relating to traffic and road safety, prevention of narcotics and substance abuse, the roles and responsibilities of citizens and law enforcement personnel. The demonstrations aimed to enhance public awareness and promote responsible conduct, social responsibility and positive community participation.
The DGP also sensitised the gathering on various forms of cybercrime, including digital and bank fraud, “digital arrest” scams, sextortion, love traps and AI-based voice cloning. He clarified that there is no provision for “digital arrest” and stressed the importance of remaining vigilant, adopting preventive measures and reporting cyber offences promptly to the appropriate authorities.
He further briefed the gathering on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, explaining that the law provides special protection to children below 18 years of age and that a minor’s consent to a sexual relationship does not constitute valid legal consent under the Act.
Concluding his address, he urged the public to extend their cooperation and support to the Sikkim Police in its efforts to maintain law and order, prevent crime and ensure the safety and well-being of the community. He stated that public cooperation and encouragement would motivate police personnel to continue performing their duties with greater commitment and dedication.
Sr SP, Namchi, Ms Sonam Doma Bhutia, informed that the awareness programme was being organised as part of the Sikkim Police’s ongoing public outreach initiative. She highlighted that the DGP, Sikkim, has been actively visiting colleges, universities and community centres as part of efforts to strengthen engagement and interaction with the public.
She elaborated on the concept of citizen-centric policing, describing it as a modern approach to law enforcement that emphasises public trust, community partnership, transparency and responsive delivery of services. She stated that the role of the Sikkim Police extends beyond crime prevention and enforcement, with greater emphasis now being placed on community engagement and strengthening interaction with the general public.
Further highlighting the public outreach initiative, she stated that it promotes a peer-to-peer approach, wherein the DGP interacts with citizens in a friendly and approachable manner, creating a comfortable environment for dialogue, awareness and learning.
She noted that the DGP has been undertaking such public outreach initiatives over the past several years with the objective of enhancing public awareness and ensuring that important issues relating to policing, crime prevention and community safety are communicated in a simple, accessible and easily understandable manner.
Welcoming the gathering, Principal of Loyola College of Education, Dr Sebastian V.J, appreciated the Sikkim Police and the DGP for organising the awareness programme for the benefit and well-being of the students. He stated that the programme would be meaningful and beneficial for the students, as it would enhance their awareness and understanding of various issues concerning their safety, security and overall well-being.
He further emphasised the importance of such interactive awareness programmes in equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to respond responsibly to challenges they may encounter in their daily lives. He expressed hope that the students would take the key messages imparted during the programme seriously and share the awareness gained with their peers and the wider community.
Tokens of appreciation were also presented to the Principal of Loyola College of Education, Namchi, and representatives of the Taxi Drivers’ Association in recognition of their support and participation in the programme.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by ASP Namchi, Mr Mani Kumar Tamang.
Also present at the programme were Vice Principal of Loyola College of Education, Namchi, Fr. Dr Daniel Bara S J, faculty members and students of Loyola College of Education and Sikkim Alpine University, members of the Taxi Drivers’ Association and police personnel.
- IPR Report
