The annual report of NCRB released on December 4 for the year 2022 points to a grim picture, and a reality that is constant. In India, crime against women is on the rise. However, what has emerged is that crime, in general, has gone south by just under 4%. Irrespective of the reasons that are now being debated around the country, Assam presents a study in contrast. The overall crime against women is on a free fall, as is the case with crime rate, in general.
The State has experienced a near 45% reduction in crime since 2021. Crime Rate (per lakh population) reported in 2022 in Assam is 194.2 (against 341 in 2021). The national crime rate is 407.6. The incidences of crime against women reported in 2022 is 14,148, compared to 29,046 in 2021. It means a reduction of over 50%. These are two important pieces of data that have enabled Assam to attain 20th position from its earlier 9th in the crime graph across the country.
Effective policing is the single most important factor responsible for this. However, what cannot be overlooked is the State Government’s overall approach. It deserves encomuims for the free hand given to the police and the policy prescription laid down. The law against child marriage itself is one of the biggest reasons of a steep fall in crime against women in the State. Yes, there have been reports of police excesses and human rights violations by the police in exercising its duty. But let us not forget that policing is always a work in progress. While not sitting on its laurels, the Assam Police can certainly work on areas that need improvement while continuing with its duty.
