Hyderabad Police Launch ‘C-Mitra’, Advise Sankranti Safety

With Sankranti celebrations approaching, the Hyderabad City Police have issued a comprehensive safety advisory covering home security, cybercrime reporting, and illegal Chinese firecrackers .

Telangana DGP V.C. Sajjanar, IPS , urged citizens to take precautions while traveling, noting that thieves often target homes with locked doors during festivals. He advised residents to keep cash and jewellery in bank lockers , avoid posting travel updates on social media, inform local police before leaving, and report any suspicious activity by calling Dial 100 .

Highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime, Sajjanar announced the launch of ‘C-Mitra’ , an AI-powered virtual helpdesk enabling cybercrime victims to register FIRs from the comfort of their homes without visiting a police station. This is the first such initiative in India.

Through C-Mitra, citizens can call the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or lodge complaints on cybercrime.gov.in . “Virtual police officers” from the Hyderabad City Police then contact the complainant. Using artificial intelligence, a legally compliant FIR is drafted and shared with the victim, who can then print, sign, and submit it by post, courier, or drop-box to the Cyber Crime Police Station, Basheerbagh . Once received, the FIR is registered and confirmation is sent via SMS.

Sajjanar stressed that the initiative reflects the department’s commitment to innovative, citizen-centric policing , aiming to strengthen cyber safety and improve access to justice.

In addition, the DGP issued a stern warning on banned Chinese manja , urging citizens not to buy it even if offered cheaply and to report any sales to the police. “Chinese manja isn’t ordinary thread; it is a lethal material that can harm humans and birds. Using it will invite strict action,” he said.

Through this advisory, Hyderabad Police are encouraging residents to celebrate safely, protect their homes and digital security, and prevent the use of hazardous firecrackers , ensuring a safe and responsible Sankranti for all.