HYDERABAD: B. Shivadhar Reddy on Wednesday assumed office as the Director General of Police of Telangana.
After taking charge at the DGP's office, he stated that ensuring peaceful and smooth conduct of local body elections was their immediate priority.
He told media persons that the police force was taking all steps to assist the State Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections.
Replying to a query, he said that police act strictly according to laws in an impartial manner. The new police chief said he would request the state government to fill the vacancies in the department, particularly in the specialised wings.
Shivadhar Reddy said he would also take steps to improve human capabilities and expertise of the force.
He assured all support for rehabilitation of Maoists who surrender and join the mainstream. He referred to a letter written by a Maoist leader that they are ready to give up the path of violence.
Shivadhar Reddy, who has vast experience in tackling Maoist problems, believes that their ideology has failed.
Shivadhar Reddy was Director General of Police, Intelligence, before his appointment as DGP. The government on September 26 issued an order posting Shivadhar Reddy as DGP (Coordination). He has also been placed in full additional charge of DGP (Head of Police Force).
Shivadhar Reddy succeeds Dr Jithender, who retired from service on attaining the age of superannuation.