Quick Police Action Stops Misinformation from Spreading in Kamptee
Nagpur, India: Communal violence in Nagpur on March 17 led to injuries among police officers, vehicles being set on fire, and streets covered in stones. Fear spread among residents, making them hesitant to step outside.
Despite the unrest, Kamptee remained calm. This was due to the efforts of Zone V Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Niketan Kadam, who took a proactive approach to maintaining peace.
Old Kamptee police inspector Prashant Jumade said that the situation in Kamptee remained under control because of a special policing method introduced by DCP Kadam. Police officers held regular meetings in different neighbourhoods, talking to people, listening to their concerns, and building trust. This open communication helped prevent trouble.
Before heading to the riot-hit Mahal area, DCP Kadam also gave strict orders to ensure law and order in Kamptee, which helped keep the area stable.
New Kamptee police inspector Mahesh Aandhale said religious leaders also played an important role in maintaining peace. The police worked with Muslim leaders to share messages of peace.
On March 19, a 30-year-old man posted objectionable content on social media. The police acted quickly, arrested him, and charged him under the IT Act. Aandhale said this strong action sent a message that any attempt to disturb peace would not be tolerated.
DCP Kadam said that trust between the police and the public is important for maintaining peace. He explained that force alone cannot control public anger, which is why he introduced regular meetings with locals in Zone V. By talking to residents and addressing their problems early, the police were able to build trust, which proved helpful during difficult times.
The success of this approach in Kamptee shows that good communication, strong community support, and effective policing can help keep peace, even in tense situations.
