Over the past nine years, Uttar Pradesh has witnessed an overhaul in policing, marked by stricter enforcement, technological integration, and a shift towards citizen-centric approaches. From cracking down on organised crime to deploying AI-driven tools and managing massive crowds with precision, the state police has undergone a structural and strategic transformation. In an interview with Pathikrit Chakraborty, UP DGP Rajeev Krishna outlines the measurable gains on the ground, the role of political will, and how a blend of technology and human engagement is redefining law enforcement in UP. ExcerptsWhat do you consider the most measurable changes on the ground, and how have policing strategies evolved to sustain these gains?UP has undergone a fundamental transformation in law and order—and this turnaround would not have been possible without the unwavering political will and zero tolerance policy of CM Yogi Adityanath. The results on the ground are measurable and lasting. Illegally acquired properties worth over Rs 4,413 crore belonging to mafia and criminal elements were seized or freed from their possession. Under Operation Conviction, over one lakh accused were sentenced from July 2023 to March 2026.What helped improve crime prevention?Emergency response systems like UP-112, increased use of surveillance, data analytics, and AI-based tools have reduced response time and improved crime detection. We have focused on citizen-centric policing—prioritising transparency, women’s safety, and cybercrime—ensuring that policing remains responsive, inclusive, and future-ready.What role did integration of technology play in improving policing? At the heart of technology transformation of policing is a philosophy that CM Yogi Adityanath has consistently championed—that effective policing is not a choice between the human and the technological, but a synthesis of both. UP Police deploys a combination of traditional foot patrolling and beat-level community presence, and AI-powered surveillance on the other.What have been the most effective technological upgrades? The most impactful step was the integration of AI-based platforms like the YAKSH app, which has unified multiple legacy systems into a single, powerful investigative tool. It allows officers to identify suspects, map gang networks, and solve cases in hours rather than days. Implementation of the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System strengthened forensic capabilities by enabling instant fingerprint matching across a national database. Operation Trinetra has emerged as a decisive force multiplier in crime control. UP Police’s partnership with Meta on AI-based suicide prevention which uses distress signals to trigger timely on-ground intervention.How are the UP Police adapting its strategies to ensure effective crowd control while maintaining public safety? Our strategy today is built on anticipation, real-time monitoring, and calibrated response. The most powerful demonstration of this approach was the Maha Kumbh 2025, where UP Police operationalised command and con-trol centre that was the nerve centre for the entire event.
