Not a place for women, kids?

The statistics of crime in our country for 2016 revealed in the latest report by the National Crime Records Bureau report are staggering. The headlines scream out the worrying trend that India continues to be a terrifying place for women and children. UP and Delhi top the crime list, with Delhi accounting for nearly 40 per cent of the rape cases. Maharashtra aces in corruption and Chandigarh is the worst in terms of crime against senior citizens, while the crown for the rate of cognisable crime goes to Kerala. Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number of atrocities against Dalits. Cyber crimes soared by 6.3 per cent over 2015.

The latest data is a grim reminder of the huge gulf between well-intentioned policies and their implementation. Haryana represents the distinct non-alignment between the two: the NCRB report puts it in the number six spot in crimes against women. The 9,839 cases reported in the state put paid to the much-touted Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign launched by PM Narendra Modi with much fanfare. At the same time, Haryana’s chhoris are excelling in diverse fields more than the chhoras. It is apparent that these achievers come from families that have believed in the spirit of the Beti slogan since much before it was conceived. Had they not been so progressive and followed the social evil of female foeticide — still a dark blot on the state — we might not have been today celebrating Neetu, Sakshi, Jyoti and Shashi who recently bagged gold medals in the World Youth Women Boxing Championship; or, Manushi Chhillar winning the Miss World title. Manushi’s confidence on the world stage is also reflective of the libertarian and reformist ideology followed by her parents. 

This dichotomy does hold out the hope that people are amenable to reason and change. Just as this time, we see a decline in the number of cases of murder, dacoity, robbery, and rioting, if the government policies are implemented in right earnest with a judicious carrot and stick rule, the next time we can expect fewer assaults on women and children. Only then will the Central government’s other pet project of vikas be truly realised. For, a crime-free society gives rise to development.