ITANAGAR, Sep 1: An awareness programme on ‘Cyber Security, Drug Abuse, New Criminal Laws and Police-Public Relations’, organized by Dera Natung Govt College (DNGC) teaming up with Capital Police, was held at the DNGC auditorium here today.
The programme aimed to sensitize college students about emerging challenges concerning cyber crime, drug abuse, criminal laws and the importance of constructive police-public relations.
In a special briefing, SP Capital Jummar Basar provided an overview of the broader responsibilities of the police in maintaining law and order, preventing crime and ensuring the safety and security of the public.
He highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts between law-enforcement agencies and the community in addressing emerging challenges, particularly cyber crime, drug abuse and other forms of criminal activity. He also stressed the significance of public cooperation, timely reporting of offences and responsible civic participation in strengthening the overall security environment.
DSP Techi Nega, speaking on ‘Police-Public Relations’, stressed the importance of mutual trust, cooperation and communication between the police and the public. He encouraged students to view the police as an important institution for public safety and to cooperate with law-enforcement agencies in preventing crime and maintaining peace and order.
Inspector Sushant Saurabh Jha, speaking on ‘New Criminal Laws’, familiarized students with the major changes introduced in India’s criminal justice system. He explained that the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 have been replaced by three new laws—the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024.
He explained that the BNS deals primarily with offences and their punishments, replacing the IPC; the BNSS governs criminal procedure, replacing the CrPC; while the BSA deals with rules relating to evidence, replacing the Indian Evidence Act. He highlighted that the new framework places greater emphasis on modern technology, digital processes, speedy investigation and trial, and improved access to justice.
Inspector Jha also drew the students’ attention to the relevance of these changes in their everyday lives, particularly the importance of understanding their rights and responsibilities under the law. He encouraged the students to remain legally aware, responsible and informed citizens, stressing that knowledge of the law can help prevent offences, promote responsible behaviour and strengthen public confidence in the criminal justice system.
Speaking on “Cyber Security and Awareness,” SI Kipa Robin highlighted the growing risks faced by students in the digital age. He sensitized the students about common cybercrimes such as phishing, UPI and QR-code fraud, social-media impersonation, cyberbullying, stalking, sextortion, and fake job or scholarship offers.
He urged students to follow the basic principle of “Pause before you click, verify before you trust, and report quickly if something goes wrong.” Students were also informed about the importance of protecting passwords, OTPs and personal information, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting financial cyber fraud immediately through 1930.
SI Padam Padi addressed the students on ‘NDPS Act and Drug Abuse Prevention’. In an interactive session, he discussed the factors that can lead young people towards substance abuse, including curiosity, peer pressure, stress and social situations. He explained that drug abuse can adversely affect physical and mental well-being, academic performance, relationships, finances and future prospects.
He also familiarized students with the practical implications of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, cautioning them against possessing, carrying, storing, transporting or concealing suspicious substances for others.
Emphasising the importance of early intervention, Padi urged students not to shame those struggling with drug dependence but to encourage them to seek appropriate help and support. He shared the message “NO, MOVE, TELL, HELP”—refuse drugs, leave risky situations, tell a trusted person or authority when necessary, and help those in need of professional support. The session also highlighted emergency and assistance helplines, including 112, 14446 for de-addiction counselling and referral, and 1933 (MANAS) for drug-related matters.
The programme concluded with a call to students to remain aware, responsible and proactive citizens, contributing positively to a safer and more informed society.