Use AI, ML to convert data into intelligence against criminals: HM Amit Shah
New Delhi, June 19
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday stressed the importance of using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for turning data into intelligence and called for using the information to study crime patterns, identifying repeat offenders and international criminals.
Addressing the 26th All India Fingerprint Conference-2026 in New Delhi, Home Minister Shah said, "We need to build AI teams and use our software into as effective tool for crime analysis and to make the best use of all the provisions."
"We need teams in all states to use AI and ML to study crime pattern and identify repeat offenders. We also need profiling and steps to prevent criminals from using jurisdictional gaps between different states," he added.
He said our system needs to think hard to fix responsibility in cases of attempts to disturb security.
The Union Minister also stressed the need to counter cybercrime, encourage third party audits, and a strong check on misuse of authority.
Union Minister Shah said, "Today, as far as the criminal justice system is concerned, our country is going through a transformation phase. There was a time when the police station and law and order were considered the main tools for maintaining peace. Whenever there was a dispute, the station in-charge would immediately resolve it. If not, a case would be filed, and matters would remain pending for year."
He also highlighted features of the new criminal laws that have replaced the archaic provisions.
The provisions related to Forensic Evidence Collection in the new laws aim to strengthen the case and investigations, making it mandatory for forensic experts to visit crime sites for serious offences and collect evidence in offences which are punishable for seven years or more.
Additionally, the process of evidence collection at the crime site is mandatorily video-graphed to prevent tampering of evidence.
This dual approach significantly enhances the quality and reliability of investigations and contributes to a fair administration of justice.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great vision but execution is key. We've seen many AI projects fail in India due to lack of training and infrastructure. The Home Minister should also focus on training police personnel in basic data handling, not just fancy tech. Also, what about privacy concerns? Need strong data protection laws first. 🙂
As a tech professional, I'm excited about this! The mandatory video-graphing of evidence collection is a brilliant move - it will reduce tampering cases drastically. But we need AI teams that understand both law enforcement and technology. Hope they collaborate with IITs and Indian startups for this.
Interesting approach from India. I work in law enforcement in the UK and we're already using similar predictive policing tools. The key is to balance crime prevention with civil liberties. Glad to see the Home Minister mentioning checks on misuse of authority - that's crucial.
About time! Our criminal justice system was stuck in the 19th century. The new laws + AI/ML integration can transform things. But please ensure there's no profiling bias - AI systems can inherit human prejudices. Need diverse teams building these systems.
This is a smart move. Data-driven policing has worked well in many countries. The emphasis on closing jurisdictional gaps between states is particularly important for tackling organized crime. Hope they also include provisions for international data sharing to catch cross-border criminals.
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