Effect of Covid-19 Lockdown on Crimes Against Women in India

Abstract

The issue of crimes against women has been a matter of concern, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened this situation. The United Nations has labeled this surge in gender-based violence cases as the "Shadow Pandemic," particularly noting the alarming rise within homes. This research seeks to comprehend the scale of crimes against women in India and compare the situations before and after the COVID-19 outbreak. To achieve this, the study employs a descriptive research design and quantitative analysis, drawing mainly from secondary sources like the National Crime Records Bureau. The analysis sheds light on various forms of violence against women, including rape-murder, dowry deaths, abetment to suicide, and other types of abusive behaviors. During the lockdown period, there was a significant decrease in reported cases, with the exception of cyber-crimes, which saw a notable 45% increase. However, after the lockdown, the number of crimes against women rose once again. The study underscores the urgent necessity to address and prevent such offenses to safeguard the safety and wellbeing of women.