Women Safety: Cops Launch Operation Dandayan In AP
Sources said the initiative aligns with the vision of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta as part of a broader strategy combining technology, awareness, community participation, victim support and conviction-based policing.
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh Police has launched a statewide special drive titled “Operation Dandayan” aimed at curbing crimes against women and ensuring speedy investigation and trial of cases related to sexual offences.
The initiative, launched under the supervision of DGP Harish Gupta and led by women and child safety wing IGP B. Rajakumari, focuses on offences related to rape, sexual harassment and Posco cases.
The DGP unveiled the official poster of the programme at the state police headquarters on Friday.
As part of the drive, a speed-trial monitoring system” is being introduced to prevent delays in investigation and legal proceedings.
Officials said filing of charge sheets within 60 days has been made mandatory in such cases, while sensational cases will be transferred to fast-track courts for speedy trial.
The DGP said the police department would enforce a zero-tolerance policy against crimes against women. No accused person would be exempt from legal action irrespective of their political, financial or social influence.
The initiative also includes legal assistance, counselling and psychological support services for victims. Police would coordinate its action with NGOs, lawyers and women welfare organisations.
To prevent repeat offences, police have been directed to maintain surveillance on habitual offenders and suspicious persons using geo-tagging and facial recognition system technology. Sexual offenders’ crime-sheets would be opened and their movements monitored. Pending cases will be reviewed and expedited.
The police department will strengthen community participation through an expanded neighbourhood watch programme in villages and towns. Residents will be encouraged to alert police about suspicious activities in their localities.
Awareness campaigns will be conducted in schools, colleges, youth groups and women’s organisations to educate people about laws, women’s rights and punishments for crimes against women. Print, electronic and social media platforms would be used to spread awareness.
