E-petty app to book cases in real time

The state police would be using an e-petty case tool, a mobile phone-based application, to register cases on the spot along with video or photo evidence.

Hyderabad police had begun using the app to register cases for minor offences. The official who registered the case filled in an online chargesheet and to add credence, took a picture of the accused. The violation was also being captured on the tablets or laptop provided. The chargesheet would be submitted along with the evidence in the court.

Director General of police M. Mahender Reddy, on Wednesday said that the ‘epetty case application’ was now being extended across the state.

“The app is used on pilot basis in Hyderabad and we witnessed a reduction of 35–40 per cent of serious crime. If small crimes are taken seriously and chargesheet filed, it would instill fear among the public,” he said.

The DGP added that the important feature of e-petty cases was that a data of repeated violators is maintained. Petty cases can be booked in real time under Sections pertaining to IPC, City Police Act, Gaming Act/ COTPA Act 2003, Motor Vehicle Act and Town Nuisance Act.

Police expects the app would bring in accountability among the police work across the state. “In manual work, there is scope for impersonators to appear before the court with the main accused staying away,” the DGP said.