Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has assured the state police of complete operational independence to restore law and order, especially focusing on the safety of women, children, and the youth. During a high-level review meeting with DGP Harish Gupta and Home Department officials at the Secretariat, the CM stressed that criminal elements must fear the law.
“You have full freedom to act. Take any steps necessary — I will not question your decisions,” Naidu told police officials. “But make sure the people, especially women and children, feel safe. Criminals should be afraid even to think about committing a crime.”
He reviewed a series of shocking incidents from the past week, including the brutal murder of an intermediate student in Anantapur and a gang rape in Kurnool. The Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the rise in such crimes despite law enforcement being empowered. He also called for stronger action against drug rackets, particularly those involving ganja.
Naidu emphasized that no leniency should be shown towards offenders. “These incidents have disturbed me personally,” he said. “Investigate thoroughly and present strong arguments in court to ensure strict punishment. Let there be no doubt — crime will not be tolerated in this administration.”
The Chief Minister directed officials to keep close tabs on repeat offenders and criminal networks. He recommended preemptive measures, including detention and formal warnings, to prevent crimes before they occur. “We must create a sense of accountability and consequence,” he said. “Lawbreakers should be convinced that justice will be swift and firm.”
He also reflected on the deterioration of public safety under the previous YSRCP government. “The breakdown in law and order is one of the reasons why people placed their trust in this new administration,” Naidu said. “We cannot let them down. We must restore confidence in the system.”
Discussing a recently surfaced report on sex trafficking in the state, Naidu directed the police to act immediately if the findings are confirmed. He ordered strict enforcement under the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against those forcing women and girls into sex work. “No one should be spared. This is above politics,” he stated. “Even if influential people are involved, action must be taken without hesitation.”
Naidu concluded by urging the police to work with integrity and maintain law and order without compromise, reiterating that the safety and dignity of every citizen — particularly women and children — remains the government’s highest priority.
