Punjab Has A Lesson For States In Controlling Organised Crime

Increased focus on Law and Order in the last four years in Punjab has led to a perceptible decline in crime, with Chief Minister Amarinder Singh making strict policing one of the cornerstones of his administration. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)'s annual report for the year 2017 stands testament to Mr. Singh's commitment in enforcing the Rule of Law in the state. In his first year as Chief Minister, Punjab has seen a sharp dip in violent crimes in comparison to the previous two years. The total number of violent crimes dropped to 5,538 in 2017 from 6,909 in 2016 and 7,237 in 2015, according to the NCRB report.

Data also showed that there has been a considerable decline in murder, kidnapping and abduction cases. And 1931 gangsters were brought to the book including 13 "Category A" criminals.

Beyond the crackdown against criminal gangs, 31 terrorist modules have been busted, 151 terrorists arrested, and more than 1,000 illegal weapons have been seized. In its ongoing fight to curb militant threats, a Special Operation Group (SOG) has been set up to contain, counter and neutralise fidayeen-style attacks including hostage situations and armed infiltration.

Efforts to strengthen policing has also yielded the creation of specialised crime units in all the districts to investigate heinous crimes. This bifurcation of law & order machinery from the investigation wing has ensured proper probe.

Some of the biggest crime cases have been taken to their logical conclusion as a result. The  Brig Jagdish Gagneja murder case, Nabha Jail break case, Vicky Gounder extortion and killing cases are some examples.

The state has also seen a significant decline in the number of cases in terms of crimes against women. While 5,105 cases were registered in 2016 and 5,340 in 2015,  the numbers fell to 4,620 in 2017. The same year saw 530 rape cases in comparison to 838 cases in 2016.  The Punjab state has also set up seven fast track courts to expedite the trial.