By Advocate Haamid Bhat
Jammu & Kashmir, known for its natural beauty and resilient people, continues to grapple with a troubling rise in crime that threatens social harmony and public trust.The question when will Jammu & Kashmir become crime-free? reflects the collective anxiety of citizens who seek safety, justice, and dignity in everyday life.
Crime in the region today extends far beyond conventional offences.While theft,drug abuse, Cybercrime,Domestic Violence, and land grabbing have increased alarmingly, Corruption, abuse of authority,illegal encroachments on state and forest land and white-collar crimes have caused deeper institutional damage.These crimes erode faith in governance and weaken the moral fabric of society.
One of the primary reasons crime persists is the failure of accountability. Delayed investigations, prolonged trials, selective application of law, and political interference have emboldened offenders. Justice delayed is justice denied and denial of justice ultimately normalizes crime.
A crime-free society cannot exist without transparent and accountable governance. Strong institutions, not influential individuals, must guide the system.Anti-corruption agencies must function independently, whistle-blowers must be protected, and public offices must be held answerable. The law must operate without fear or favour.
Police reforms are equally crucial. A professional, well-trained, and people-friendly police force is the backbone of law and order.Community policing, Scientific Investigation, and respect for human rights are essential to rebuild public trust. When citizens see police stations as centres of Justice rather than intimidation, crime begins to decline.
The Judiciary remains the last hope for the common citizen. Fast-track courts, adequate judicial strength, digitization, and strict scrutiny of frivolous litigation are urgently needed. Justice must be accessible, affordable and timely.
The growing drug menace among youth poses a grave threat to the future of Jammu & Kashmir. This crisis demands a multi-pronged approach strict action against traffickers, employment generation, education, sports, counseling, and rehabilitation. Saving the youth is not an option, it is a necessity.
Women’s safety and social justice must form the foundation of a crime-free society. Crimes against women and deprivation of property or dignity must be met with zero tolerance. A society that fails its women cannot claim progress.
Jammu & Kashmir will move towards becoming crime-free only when rule of law prevails over political convenience, corruption is punished, justice is swift, and citizens actively uphold ethical values.
A Crime-free Jammu & Kashmir is not a dream,it is a constitutional obligation and a collective responsibility.
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