In India, rules require that a female police officer must be present when a police complaint is recorded. But a 2023 report by the Ministry of Home Affairs found that women make up a mere 12 per cent of India’s police force.
The government admitted that this lack of policewomen is “posing serious challenges in dealing with crimes against women”.
Police officers have also said they are overworked, underpaid and understaffed. India only has 153 cops for every 100,000 citizens – far below the United Nations’ recommendation of 222.
“CULT OF MASCULINITY”
Although the government pointed the finger at numbers, insiders told CNA that the problem is far more complex.
“The cult of masculinity that prevails in every police station needs to go,” said former senior police officer Vikram Singh.
“That requires a tremendous course correction for a department that has been essentially male dominated for almost 250 years. Do we give it all that we have, every ounce of what energy and talent to ensure that the rapist is punished?” he questioned
“I would say that we do not.”
While the Indian Supreme Court recommended police reforms nearly two decades ago, experts said the rollout of these reforms has been patchy and inconsistent.
Studies show that many people in India consider the police “unfriendly” and untrustworthy – and government figures show 99 per cent of women never report their assaults.
Lawyers as well as social workers at organisations like the Majlis Legal Centre for Women are working to change that.
Since 1991, the non-profit group has helped more than 80,000 women file police complaints and get legal representation.
Source: CNA
