Abstract
Crimes against women (CAW) remain a critical social issue in India, despite legislative efforts and economic progress. This study analyzes CAW trends across Indian states from 2012 to 2022, focusing on the relationship between crime rates and socio-economic indicators such as literacy, GDP, and unemployment. By utilizing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and spatial mapping, the research provides empirical insights into regional disparities in gender-based violence and its association with economic and social determinants. Data from authoritative sources such as the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), National Commission for Women (NCW), World Bank, and the Statistical Handbook of NCW inform this analysis. The findings reveal significant correlations between unemployment and overall crime rates, indicating economic distress as a driving factor in gender-based violence. Conversely, the weak association between GDP growth and crime reduction challenges traditional assumptions that economic prosperity alone mitigates violence. The study argues that higher literacy may enhance reporting and awareness but does not necessarily reduce violence, especially in patriarchal settings. Spatial analysis highlights persistent regional disparities, with states like Assam, Odisha, and Haryana exhibiting consistently high crime rates. The results emphasize region-specific policy interventions, particularly in high-crime states such as Assam, Odisha, and Haryana, where enforcement mechanisms and survivor support require urgent strengthening. The study underscores the importance of integrating statistical correlations with sociological insights, advocating for multi-sectoral approaches to crime prevention. Future research should explore qualitative dimensions to enrich governance strategies and inform data-driven policy development aimed at safeguarding women’s rights and enhancing institutional accountability.
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