Why Is the Law and Order Situation in Bihar Still Alarming?

Weak Governance and Corruption

Weak governance and rampant corruption keeps the law and order situation in Bihar alarming. The tendency for political interference in policing is undermining accountability in a manner that allows criminals to operate freely. Institutions are undermined by officials who often put personal gain over public safety. Criminal networks thrive when they are not under strict oversight: violence and chaos are fuelled by these stories. In any case, unless governance improves and corruption is uprooted, Bihar will not cease to have instability.

Ineffective Policing System

Bihar policing system is inefficient and under-resourced to not be able to deter the crime in the state. Officers are poorly trained, ill equipped and lack the appropriate morale to do their job competently. The political pressure for impartial enforcement creates further restrictions and lawlessness is encouraged. These gaps, though, are known by criminals and their chance of facing consequences are unlikely. Rebuilding police infrastructure and restoring autonomy is necessary, but it is advancing far too slowly.

Pervasive Criminal Networks

Deteriorating law and order in Bihar is largely due to deep penetration of organised crime syndicates in Bihar. There are rampant kidnappings, extortion, contract killings and gangs patronized by the political class. Judicial processes are too weak to account for the offenders, but it emboldens others. Until we dismantle these networks decisively, it will not be good news for Bihar's security. A zero tolerance is what the state needs to break this cycle of violence.

Socio-Economic Disparities

Crime thrives on poverty and unemployment in Bihar. Many commit illegal activities out of desperation and lack of education and can keep the cycle of violence alive. Youth are vulnerable to recruitment by criminal groups, because of economic stagnation. These disparities must be addressed; by way of job creation and social programs. Enforcement alone is no substitute for economic empowerment as it can’t stabilize the state.

Lack of Public Trust

People in Bihar don’t trust the system and are scared to report crimes because they think they will be retaliated against. Witness intimidation and long trials discourage a victim of crime from cooperating with the authorities. The culture of silence is largely fuelled by this distrust, thus allowing criminals to be on top of things. Swift justice and lots of community engagement is what works in rebuilding confidence. The law and order crisis will only go away when people believe in the system.