Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has intensified its crackdown on crime over the past nine years, sending more than 22,000 wanted criminals to जेल and securing convictions for over 1.25 lakh accused, officials said. The achievements have been attributed to the state’s “zero-tolerance” policy under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
According to official data, a total of 22,306 reward-carrying criminals have been arrested and jailed since 2017. In addition, under the state’s focused legal drive “Operation Conviction,” 1,25,985 accused have been found guilty in courts, reflecting a significant push toward strengthening the justice delivery system.
Crackdown on Organized Crime
The government highlighted that strict enforcement measures, including police encounters, anti-mafia operations, and stringent laws, have helped curb organized crime. Since 2017, 269 criminals have been killed in encounters, while over 10,000 have been injured during police action.
Authorities have also invoked tough legal provisions such as the Gangster Act against more than 85,000 offenders and the National Security Act (NSA) against nearly 1,000 individuals. Illegal properties worth thousands of crores linked to criminal networks and mafia groups have been seized or demolished as part of the drive.
Stronger Conviction Rates
Under Operation Conviction, courts have awarded stringent punishments, including death sentences to 79 criminals and life imprisonment to over 10,000 offenders. Thousands of others have received long-term jail sentences, reinforcing deterrence against serious crimes.
The state also reported successful prosecution of mafia networks, with several gang leaders and their associates receiving life imprisonment and other severe penalties.
Decline in Major Crimes
Officials claimed that improved policing and legal action have led to a sharp decline in major crimes compared to 2016 levels. Reported incidents of dacoity have dropped by 90%, robbery by 85%, murder by 47%, riots by 70%, kidnapping for ransom by 62%, dowry deaths by 19%, and rape cases by 53%.
Focus on Women’s Safety
The government emphasized that women’s safety has remained a top priority through initiatives such as Mission Shakti and the Anti-Romeo Squads. More than 50 million individuals have been checked under these squads, with legal action taken against over 38,000 offenders.
Integrated helplines like 1090 and 181, along with dedicated women police stations and increased female police recruitment, have strengthened the safety network. The state claims a disposal rate of nearly 99% in cases related to women, among the highest in the country.
Boost to Investment Climate
The improved law and order situation has also positively impacted the state’s economy, with officials stating that Uttar Pradesh has become an attractive destination for investors and businesses. The government asserted that a secure environment has played a key role in boosting economic growth and public confidence.
Reiterating its commitment, the state government said it will continue its firm stance against crime while ensuring safety, justice, and a conducive environment for development.
