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Andhra Pradesh CM Orders Zero Tolerance on Crime, Boosts Police Tech

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed police to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards criminals, emphasizing swift action and evidence preservation. The CM also highlighted the need for enhanced technology integration and improved public safety measures.

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Key takeaways

  • Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has instructed police to maintain a firm stance against criminals, emphasizing the importance of evidence and prompt action.
  • The state's surveillance network has been expanded to approximately one lakh CCTV cameras, incorporating facial recognition and DNA analysis for investigations.
  • Mr. Naidu mandated zero tolerance for crimes against women and warned against leniency, citing a past case as an example of a "costly mistake."
  • Political parties were cautioned against disrupting public order and inconveniencing citizens through rallies or demonstrations.
  • The police department is directed to intensify action against drugs and social media-driven crime, and to improve conviction rates through effective policing.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has urged the state police to continuously update their crime-fighting methods and integrate technology to address the evolving nature of criminal activities. Speaking virtually to police officers from the Director General of Police down to Station House Officers, Mr. Naidu stressed the importance of securing evidence at crime scenes and acting rapidly to ensure successful investigations.

The Chief Minister announced that the state has augmented its surveillance network by integrating 14,770 government CCTV cameras with private installations, bringing the total to approximately one lakh cameras. He also noted the increased use of facial recognition and DNA analysis in investigations. Mr. Naidu stated that these measures are part of an effort to correct shortcomings in law and order maintenance, which he described as essential for public peace and attracting investment.

Zero Tolerance and Public Safety

Mr. Naidu called for a strict approach to crimes against women and reiterated the need for swift police action and crime scene preservation. Citing lapses in the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case as a "costly mistake," he warned against showing any leniency to offenders. The Chief Minister also addressed the conduct of political parties, asserting that they do not have the authority to break laws or disrupt public life through rallies or condolence visits. He questioned the necessity of motorcycle stunts during political events on public roads and noted that police officers have been attacked while on duty.

He emphasized that political affiliation should not exempt individuals from legal consequences and alleged that a significant portion of those causing disturbances on roads belong to a single political party. While acknowledging the right to offer condolences, he pointed out that large-scale road demonstrations during such visits create substantial public inconvenience.

Police Modernization and Future Direction

The Chief Minister assured police personnel of government support, including the freedom to perform their duties and measures to enhance their dignity and respect. He advocated for an "invisible police, visible policing" strategy to build public trust. Additionally, Mr. Naidu directed law enforcement to intensify efforts against the drug trade, ganja, and crimes facilitated by social media, promoting the "Drugs Vaddhu Bro" campaign. He expressed his aspiration for Andhra Pradesh to become the leading state in law and order, urging police to publicize successful investigations, improve conviction rates, and practice community-oriented policing. A monthly performance report detailing best practices and successful cases is to be released by the department.

The meeting was attended by Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, DGP Harish Kumar Gupta, and other senior officials.

Sources reviewed

Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.

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