Guntur: Home Minister Anitha has criticized the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government for not making police appointments during its five-year tenure. Speaking at a review meeting with senior police officers at the Guntur Police Office, Anitha also took aim at YSRCP leaders, accusing them of attempting to intimidate the police and assert political control.
During a media interaction, Anitha strongly condemned former Minister Roja’s offensive comments and questioned the integrity of the YSRCP leadership. She accused former MP Gorantla Madhav of using intimidation tactics against the police and alleged that this was an attempt to manipulate the police for political advantage. Anitha also confirmed that disciplinary actions had been taken against certain police officers involved in mishandling the case of Gorantla Madhav.
The Home Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to holding YSRCP leaders accountable and ensuring justice, particularly in relation to criminal cases. She highlighted the administration’s success in ensuring that those accused in 30 Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) cases were punished.
Anitha reiterated the primary duty of the police to protect the public and outlined plans to enhance security, including increasing safety measures around high-profile locations such as the High Court, the state capital, the Secretariat, and political party offices. She also stated that efforts would be focused on modernizing police stations, with proposals to establish 10 new police stations across the state.
Additionally, the Home Minister criticized the YSRCP government for dismantling vital security systems, such as CCTV cameras, fingerprint identification systems, and body-worn cameras. Anitha explained that the current government had invested ₹10-12 crore to restore these systems, which have already contributed to solving 70% of criminal cases through the use of CCTV footage.
Anitha revealed that the government is now focused on installing CCTV cameras in every district, with plans to install 5,000 to 10,000 cameras in each district under the jurisdiction of the Superintendent of Police. She emphasized that CCTV cameras play a vital role in improving crime detection and public safety.
The Home Minister also encouraged citizens to voluntarily install CCTV cameras at their homes, shops, and private schools to further enhance security. She highlighted the use of drones for surveillance, especially in areas where traditional methods of monitoring may fall short. In Kotappakonda, for instance, drones played a key role in ensuring smooth surveillance during large events, preventing any disruptions.
Concluding her remarks, Anitha stressed the importance of justice for victims and called for greater public involvement in criminal investigations, acknowledging that every citizen plays an essential role in maintaining safety and security in society.