Bhopal (Crime Against Women in MP): Women and girls are still not getting justice in serious crimes like rape. The situation is such that nearly 75% of the accused are getting away scot-free. A major reason for this is that under pressure, victims end up changing their statements. Additionally, delays in gathering evidence and investigations are also preventing victims from getting justice. According to a report from the Home Department, in 2023, decisions were made in 7,048 serious crimes against women in district and session courts. However, only 21% of these cases resulted in convictions. In 5,571 cases, the accused were acquitted, and only 1,477 cases saw a conviction. This means, in just 21% of the cases, the victims saw justice. Similarly, from January to September 2024, decisions were made in 4,357 cases, with only 835 resulting in convictions. In 3,522 cases, the accused were acquitted, which means only 19% of cases led to punishment. These cases include rape, gang rape, murder after rape, murder attempts, acid attacks, dowry deaths, and more.
A significant weakness in gathering evidence is the shortage of forensic teams. Only major crimes are attended to by forensic teams at the crime scene. Over 4,000 DNA samples are still pending analysis, causing delays in justice. The low conviction rate for crimes against women, along with delays in government procedures, is further slowing the delivery of justice. For instance, more than 4,000 DNA samples are still pending analysis in various labs in the state. When there are delays in the prosecution process, courts have to send letters to request the test results. Moreover, the state police force is facing a shortage of investigation officers. There are about 25,000 investigation officers in the state, while nearly 5 lakh crimes are registered every year, of which over 30,000 are crimes against women. The approved strength of the police force is 1,26,000, but only about 1 lakh positions are filled. Investigation authority rests with the head constable or higher police officers.
