The infamous Delhi gangrape case as well as the consequent cases of sexual assaults over young girls and women has no doubt been on top of news everyday. Sadly, Andhra Pradesh too is no exception to this. The state holds the dubious distinction of registering maximum cases of crime in the recent days. From kidnap and murders to rape and robbery, there's no end to brutalities against people in AP. It wouldn't be wrong to say that the government has failed to take enough preventive measures to curb the crime rate.

It's a known fact that rape is the most talked about topic these days. From students in Delhi protesting to school kids carrying out a candle light vigil, every person in his own way is expressing displeasure over the rising atrocities against the fairer sex. Politicians too are not far behind. With elections not too far away, political leaders are making every effort to use the 'rape' issue for extra mileage. Realising how much the safety of a girl and the importance given to a girl can get them visibility, several politicians in the state are going overboard, announcing several schemes to protect the interests of a girl child.

Here are a few examples to substantiate the same.

Kiran Kumar Reddy is all set to soon launch “Bangaru Talli” scheme to prevent female infanticide. According to the scheme, government will bear the entire expenses of educating a girl child right from KG to PG.

But one wonders how, a government which failed to implement YSR's fee reimbursement scheme which is in favour of poor students, will implement the new scheme.

Up next is leader of the main opposition party, TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu. Naidu, who recently concluded his Vastunna Meekosam padayatra was often seen announcing several new schemes to woo women voters.
During his conclusion meeting in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, Naidu also announced a deposit of Rs 25,000 in the name of the girl child at the time of birth which will fetch her Rs. 2 lakh when she grows up. He also promised free bicycles to girl students if voted to power.

However, insiders say that this is only a gimmick to seek attention and garner more votes. Nevertheless, let's see what the Chief Minister of AP has in mind.

- Siva@sakshipost