Telangana Chief Minister Directs Police System Overhaul to Combat Evolving Crime Threats

Hyderabad: Recognising the rapidly evolving nature of criminal activity and contemporary security threats, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has instructed the state's law enforcement apparatus to undergo comprehensive modernisation.

Speaking during a strategic meeting convened at the MCR HRD Institute, Revanth Reddy emphasised that strengthening institutional frameworks and integrating cutting-edge technology are essential for elevating policing standards across Telangana. Chief Secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao, State Security Adviser B. Shivdhar Reddy, and Police Commissioner C.V. Anand, alongside other senior officers from police and fire services, participated in the deliberations.

The Chief Minister instructed officials to develop forward-looking strategic plans with a decade-long perspective. He specifically highlighted the urgency of addressing cybercrime, directing the Chief Secretary and Police Commissioner to investigate the surge in digital crimes and furnish a comprehensive assessment.

To strengthen the state's capacity against cyber threats, Revanth Reddy proposed dedicated recruitment drives for specialised cybercrime units and the establishment of a targeted training programme through Young India Skills University for police personnel.

The Chief Minister outlined an expanded technological roadmap encompassing drone surveillance initiatives, wider CCTV network deployment, enhanced night-time patrolling operations, and optimised utilisation of the Command Control Centre infrastructure.

Additional infrastructure improvements were also mandated, including the expansion of forensic laboratories and data processing centres to meet operational demands. Revanth Reddy suggested a professional development model whereby officers ranging from the Sub-Inspector cadre to non-cadre IPS ranks undertake cross-departmental postings for two years following promotions.

The Chief Minister directed the establishment of specialised rehabilitation facilities for individuals struggling with substance abuse and called for improved inter-departmental coordination among senior officials.

Addressing the vigilance apparatus, Revanth Reddy urged intensified technological deployment and data-driven analytical approaches to combat organised criminal networks. He requested a feasibility study regarding potential expansion of vigilance department authorities.

The fire services department received instructions to pivot toward preventive fire safety measures rather than reactive emergency responses. Officials were directed to present a comprehensive report by June 15, developed in consultation with municipal authorities and HYDRAA.

Departmental coordination in critical urban infrastructure—particularly drainage maintenance and manhole management—was emphasised as requiring urgent improvement. Revanth Reddy also instructed police and municipal officials to enforce strict compliance regarding illegal promotional signage throughout the city.

The Chief Minister underscored the necessity of intensified action against food adulteration practices and advocated for legislative measures to deter such violations. He cautioned officials against complacency in maintaining public order and mandated the strengthening of village-level policing and patrol mechanisms.

Revanth Reddy reaffirmed the government's zero-tolerance stance toward departmental corruption and stated that personnel transfers and postings must be determined solely on merit-based criteria. He noted that the state government is engaged in discussions with the Union government regarding an increase in IPS officer strength for Telangana.