In conversation with Dr Satyajit Nayak, IPS, Inspector General of Police, Central Range
Report Jajpur
Q. What was the idea behind launching “Operation Reconnect” in Jajpur?
Dr Satyajit Nayak: The basic idea behind Operation Reconnect is simple — to reconnect people with their belongings and, more importantly, to strengthen their trust in the police. A lost or stolen mobile phone may appear to be a small issue, but for an individual it can contain important personal, professional, financial and emotional information. We wanted to ensure that every genuine effort was made to trace such devices and return them to their rightful owners.
Q. How does the initiative fit into the concept of citizen-centric policing?
Dr Nayak: Citizen-centric policing means understanding the problems faced by people and responding to them with sensitivity and efficiency. Police work is not confined to registering cases and maintaining law and order. It is also about helping citizens recover what belongs to them. Operation Reconnect sends a clear message that the police are accessible and committed to resolving citizens’ problems.
Q. Jajpur Police has recovered and returned a large number of mobile phones under this initiative. What does this achievement mean to you?
Dr Nayak: The recovery and return of 200 mobile phones is certainly encouraging. But I would look at it beyond the number. Behind every phone there is a person, a family or a professional requirement. When a citizen receives a lost phone back, the relief and happiness on their face are the real measure of the success of the initiative. It also demonstrates the commitment and technical capabilities of our police personnel.
Q. What role has technology played in Operation Reconnect?
Dr Nayak: Technology has become an integral part of modern policing. Tracking missing or stolen mobile phones requires systematic analysis, coordination and the effective use of available technological tools. Our officers and personnel are making sustained efforts to trace such devices. At the same time, technology must always be combined with human intelligence, field-level policing and proper verification.
Q. What message would you like to give to police personnel involved in the operation?
Dr Nayak: I appreciate the officers and personnel who have worked consistently to trace the devices. My message to them is that every recovery matters. Police personnel must remember that their conduct in such citizen-oriented initiatives directly influences public confidence. We should continue to work with professionalism, patience, integrity and sensitivity.
Q. How important is public cooperation in tracing missing mobile phones?
Dr Nayak: Public cooperation is extremely important. Citizens should promptly report the loss or theft of mobile phones and provide correct details to the police. They should also keep records of their device details, including the IMEI number. Such information can significantly assist investigation and recovery efforts. Cooperation between citizens and police makes technology-driven policing much more effective.
Q. What precautions should people take to protect their mobile phones?
Dr Nayak: People should keep their IMEI number and other essential device details safely recorded. They should use strong screen locks, enable available security features and avoid sharing passwords, OTPs or banking credentials with anyone. If a phone is lost or stolen, it should be reported to the police immediately. Citizens should also be cautious about suspicious calls, messages and links, particularly when the lost device may contain access to financial or personal accounts.
Q. Can Operation Reconnect become a model for other citizen-centric police initiatives?
Dr Nayak: Certainly. The larger lesson from Operation Reconnect is that policing must constantly evolve according to the needs of society. Small initiatives can create a significant impact when they are implemented with sincerity and accountability. We should encourage more such technology-enabled and citizen-focused initiatives across the Central Range.
Q. Finally, what is the larger message behind Operation Reconnect?
Dr Nayak: The larger message is one of trust. Police and citizens are partners in creating a safe society. When the police make an effort to return something that a citizen has lost, it creates a personal connection between the citizen and the police institution. Operation Reconnect is therefore not merely about recovering mobile phones; it is about restoring smiles, strengthening public confidence and reminding people that the police stand with them.