Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a significant increase in overall crime rates in 2022, according to the latest report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB). While there was a marginal decline in violent crimes, the state experienced a surge of 26.4% in total criminal cases compared to the previous year.
The NCRB report revealed that in 2021, there were a total of 31,675 cognizable crimes reported in Jammu and Kashmir, which comprised 27,447 Indian Penal Code (IPC) crimes and 4,228 Special and Local Laws (SLL) crimes. This marked a significant increase from the 28,911 cases reported in 2020, amidst the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, the number of cognizable crimes stood at 25,408.
Analyzing the data, it was found that the crime rate registration per lakh population was 235.7 from 2019 to 2021, highlighting the rise in criminal activities. However, the report did show a marginal decline in violent crimes, with 3,072 incidents reported in 2021 compared to 3,100 in 2019. In 2020, there were 2,821 recorded cases of violent crimes. The charge-sheeting rate for violent crimes during this period was 67.2%.
The report further provided insights into specific types of crimes in Jammu and Kashmir. It highlighted that murder cases decreased slightly from 149 in 2020 to 136 in 2021. Of the total murders reported, 30 were attributed to extremism or insurgency, two to political reasons, one to honor killing, ten to love affairs, and three to illicit relationships. The report also revealed that 79.9% of murder culprits were charge-sheeted.
In addition, the report mentioned four incidents of infanticide, three cases of foeticide, and 16 dowry deaths reported in Jammu and Kashmir. Negligence-related deaths, mainly resulting from road accidents, accounted for 1,346 fatalities.
Regarding abduction cases, the report highlighted a significant increase in 2022, with 1,041 cases reported, compared to 961 in 2019 and 868 in 2020. It was noted that many of the abducted individuals were women, often kidnapped for forced marriages. Unfortunately, the chargesheeting rate for abduction cases remained low at 33.6%. By the end of 2021, 1,882 abducted persons, including 957 women abducted during the year and 811 women kidnapped before 2022, remained unrecovered. However, 1,051 abducted persons, including 811 women, were found alive during the year, while two were found dead after abduction.
The report also shed light on crimes committed by juveniles, indicating an increase from 171 cases in 2020 to 323 cases. Moreover, Jammu and Kashmir registered 289 cases under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, two under the Official Secrets Act, and 300 under offenses against state-related acts. Additionally, 247 cases were registered under arms and explosives related acts, 29 under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 35 under Finance and Economic Act, and 718 under the Excise Act. The state also recorded 1,681 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
The NCRB report presents a comprehensive overview of the crime scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the increase in total criminal cases and providing specific details about various types of crimes. While the overall crime graph witnessed a surge of 26.4% in 2021, it is worth noting that there was a marginal decline in violent crimes during the same period. These findings shed light on the challenges faced by the law enforcement agencies in Jammu and Kashmir in maintaining law and order. The increase in overall crime rates underscores the need for enhanced security measures, effective policing, and proactive measures to address the root causes of criminal activities.
It is crucial for the state government and law enforcement authorities to analyze the data provided by the NCRB report and formulate targeted strategies to combat crime effectively. This may include strengthening community policing initiatives, improving the investigation and prosecution processes, and implementing preventive measures to address the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to criminal behavior. Furthermore, efforts should be made to enhance public awareness and promote a culture of reporting crimes, as this can lead to better crime detection and prevention. Collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and the general public are vital in creating a safe and secure environment for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
Additionally, initiatives aimed at addressing the specific types of crimes highlighted in the report, such as murder, abduction, and crimes against women, need to be prioritized. This may involve establishing specialized units, increasing resources for investigation and victim support services, and implementing stringent measures to ensure the speedy delivery of justice. It is also essential to focus on the rehabilitation and reintegration of juvenile offenders, providing them with opportunities for education, skill development, and counseling to prevent them from becoming repeat offenders.The NCRB report serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders in understanding the crime trends and patterns in Jammu and Kashmir. By utilizing this data effectively, stakeholders can devise evidence-based strategies to tackle crime, promote community safety, and ensure the well-being of the residents.
In conclusion, while Jammu and Kashmir experienced a surge in overall crime rates in 2022, the marginal decline in violent crimes indicates some positive developments. However, addressing the underlying causes of crime and implementing comprehensive strategies are crucial to create a safer and more secure environment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions, the region can work towards reducing crime, fostering community trust, and promoting a culture of peace and harmony.