‘269 criminals killed so far in encounters’

Lucknow: On the occasion of the first day of Navratri dedicated to Maa Shailputri, Uttar Pradesh govt highlighted its nine-year journey of governance, asserting that a strict zero-tolerance policy towards crime has firmly established the rule of law in the state, making it safer for citizens, businesses, and investors alike.Officials stated that sustained action against crime and criminals since 2017 has not only improved public safety but also restored a sense of confidence among women, enabling them to work fearlessly even during night shifts. The improved law and order situation has also contributed significantly to economic growth, boosting trade, industry, and investment, with Uttar Pradesh emerging as a preferred destination for both domestic and global investors. Highlighting enforcement measures, govt said 269 criminals have been killed in police encounters since 2017, while 10,990 have been injured during operations. As many as 22,306 reward-carrying criminals have been arrested. A focused crackdown on organised crime has also been carried out against mafia networks. Cases have been registered against 1,459 individuals linked to 68 mafia gangs, leading to the arrest of 638 accused. Authorities reported that properties worth over Rs 4,137 crore, allegedly acquired through illegal means by these criminals, have been confiscated. Under Operation Conviction, a total of 1,25,985 accused have been convicted over the past nine years.According to official figures, UP ranks first in the country in terms of disposal of cases related to women, with a disposal rate of 98.90%.