IIT Madras Study on Women in Policing: Deployment of female police personnel could transform women's safety and address gender-based crimes.
IIT Madras Study on Women in Policing: According to the study, increasing the number of female personnel in the police force could strengthen the trust that victims of gender-based violence place in the police.
Questions often arise regarding why victims of crimes against women in the country hesitate to file complaints. Social pressure, the fear of stigma, and a lack of faith in the justice system are considered major reasons for this. Amidst this, a new study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has highlighted crucial insights into the issue. The study suggests that increasing the number of female police personnel could bolster the confidence that victims of gender-based violence have in the police. This would likely lead to higher reporting rates, a greater likelihood of victims securing justice, and a more victim-centric policing system. However, the research also warns that an over-reliance on settlements or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in such cases could undermine the justice process and embolden offenders.
According to the study, crimes against women in India occur in both public and private spheres. Many incidents—particularly domestic violence—often fail to reach the police due to social stigma, fear, and familial considerations. The research indicates that a higher representation of women in the police force boosts victims' confidence, encouraging them to come forward and file complaints, while enabling the police system to respond with greater sensitivity.
The study was conducted under the leadership of retired IPS officer Professor P. Kandaswamy. It involved focus group discussions with police officers across the country. Subsequently, insights were gathered from experts in criminology, psychology, social work, and law to clarify the study's findings. The research has been published in the prestigious peer-reviewed journal *Systems Research and Behavioral Science*. Research indicates that a higher representation of female officers in the police force leads to more sensitive police conduct towards female victims of crime. This strengthens women's trust in the police and increases the reporting of crimes. The study also highlights that female officers listen to victims with greater understanding and sensitivity, thereby improving police functioning and ensuring victims receive better support and respect.
A significant finding of the study is the 'Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Paradox.' According to the study, female officers often advise reconciliation instead of registering an FIR in cases involving married women, aiming to preserve the family unit and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system. However, the research cautions that if this approach is adopted indiscriminately in every case, it could undermine the formal justice process and embolden repeat offenders. The study concludes that ADR should be employed only when the victim consents to it voluntarily and with full awareness; if a victim desires legal action, that decision must be respected.
The research states that merely increasing the number of female police personnel is not enough; women must also be provided with leadership opportunities, specialized training, institutional support, and robust accountability mechanisms. Only then can they fully play their part in making the justice system effective and enhancing public trust.
According to researchers, policies such as reservation, targeted recruitment, maternity and childcare leave, and improved healthcare facilities have played a positive role in increasing women's participation in the police force. The study offers several suggestions to further strengthen these efforts, including recruiting more women into the force, assigning them leadership responsibilities, providing specialized training to handle gender-based crimes, conducting regular independent reviews, raising public awareness, and implementing reforms.
