Published by Aloto Naga | November 5, 2025
The easons why Nagaland Citizens Fear Reporting Crime are; In Nagaland, it often takes less than ten minutes of conversation for two people to realize they are somehow related, cousins, in-laws, or extended family. The connections run deep across tribes, towns, and villages. What makes this bond beautiful in culture also creates a quiet but powerful challenge when it comes to exposing wrongdoing. Because in a land where everyone knows everyone, anonymity is almost impossible.
When Family and Fear Intersect
During a recent interaction with local businessmen in Dimapur the commercial city of Nagaland, many revealed a silent struggle. They admitted knowing about emergency helplines set up by the Nagaland Police to report illegal money collection a problem that often involves individuals claiming to represent the Naga Army (NSCN) or other underground groups. Yet, despite being aware of these official channels, none of them have ever called. When asked why, their response was simple and heartbreaking:
“Even if we report, they’ll know it’s us.”
The businessmen explained that when underground groups or imposters collect “taxes” or extort money, they do so openly shop to shop, face to face. So if anyone reports, it becomes easy to trace the source. And even if the culprits are caught, they will come out within days and may return for revenge.
A Culture of Silence Born from Connection
This fear is not about distrust in the police. In fact, most businessmen clearly stated that they believe in the police and their honesty. The real issue lies in personal connections family ties, friendships, and social relationships that extend into the local authorities themselves. Also Read Nagaland Dy CM Y. Patton Challenged by Hayithung Bill Lotha to Debate on Press Freedom
As one trader said:
“We know the police mean well, but even they are related to us — somehow the word will travel.”
This deeply rooted closeness makes Nagaland unique a place where the community feels like one big extended family. But it also makes justice complicated, as personal bonds blur the lines of accountability.
The Need for Anonymous Voices
In such an environment, true anonymity becomes the only path to truth. Many citizens believe that safe and anonymous reporting systems could finally empower them to speak up without fear of being identified, judged, or targeted. That’s where new initiatives such as HelpNagaland.com come in offering a digital space for people to expose wrongdoing without revealing their identity or even their IP address for 100% free. Platforms like this could become crucial tools for the people of Nagaland who want to protect their community while remaining safe.
Breaking the Cycle of Fear
Change in Nagaland will not happen overnight. But it can begin when people are given safe ways to share the truth without fear of retaliation. Until then, silence will continue to protect the powerful, and fear will continue to silence the honest. It’s time for Nagaland to embrace a culture of truth safely, courageously, and anonymously.
