Crime rate down by 6%, says Home Minister Anitha
Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha told the Legislative Assembly on Friday that the State’s overall crime rate has fallen by 6 per cent compared to the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government’s tenure. She said the coalition government places the highest priority on maintaining law and order.
Speaking during the discussion and voting on the Demands for Grants for the Home Administration, Ms. Anitha outlined steps to address cybercrime and improve women’s safety. She said the Shakti App and Shakti Teams have strengthened response systems. These measures helped reduce crimes against women by 4.40 per cent.
The Minister said police have intensified surveillance and patrolling in vulnerable areas. She added that district units now coordinate more closely through technology-driven monitoring systems. According to her, the government has increased its focus on intelligence gathering, preventive policing, and faster investigations.
Ms. Anitha said the government will act firmly against provocative behaviour by any group or individual, including YSRCP activists. Peace and stability, she noted, are essential for social harmony and economic growth. A secure environment encourages investment and supports entrepreneurship.
The Minister linked recent investment commitments to improved policing and stronger law enforcement. She said effective maintenance of law and order has boosted investor confidence over the past 20 months.
Highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime, Ms. Anitha said the government is setting up cybercrime police stations in all districts. She added that authorities are training specialised personnel to tackle online fraud, identity theft, and digital harassment. The government has also launched awareness campaigns to promote safe online practices.
Ms. Anitha further said the government is modernising police infrastructure and upgrading forensic capabilities. Community policing initiatives, she added, aim to strengthen trust between citizens and law enforcement agencies.