Nip Social Crime In Bud

A social crime is a crime against society.  Increase in such a crime bodes ill for the future of a country as a whole.  According to Nepal Police data, the country is witnessing an increase in the number of social crimes. An average of 162 cases of such crimes are registered daily across the country, with suicide averaging 20 cases and rape cases numbering 7 daily. Drug-related cases increased from 1,369 in the first quarter of the last fiscal year to 1,619 this year. Similarly, 193 homicide cases were registered during first four months of this year, up from 192 cases during the same period last year. With the proliferation of social media use, incidents of cybercrime – like online harassment, intimidation, cyberbullying etc. – have also soared alarmingly. 

Our legal apparatus has since long ago abolished witchery, untouchability, every other form of discrimination and social evils – factors largely responsible for causing crimes. But the growing incidents of crime these days is an evidence to suggest that only punishment as deterrence is insufficient to prevent crimes. Social crime is a reflection of a lack of empathy and a moral compass, stemming from a combination of factors, including economic and social disparities, as well as traumatic events that breed anger and resentment. 

Our society at every level is undergoing modernisation, with money becoming one of the most important things. Everyone needs money to fulfil even the smallest of his/her needs or aspirations. Someone with abundant money is seen as the one with status and power, putting immense pressure on people to earn more and more. But not all have the means and luck to earn enough money, creating inequality. As long as there is widespread poverty created by wealth inequality, some people, either out of choice, habit, greed or tremendous pressure, tend to push themselves into nefarious activities including theft, robbery, homicide, among others, for money or wealth.    

A crime not only seriously affects its victim – emotionally or psychologically; it also disturbs the whole society, threatening to fray the social fabric. And in a society where crimes are rife, no amount of wealth can bring a peace of mind. Many times a traumatic event, often occurring in the childhood, such as physical and sexual abuse, assault, accident, death or murder of the loved ones or parents etc., shapes an individual's   behaviour and nudges him/her towards committing crime in later years. This highlights the necessity of access to mental health care not only to address such trauma but also to effectively deal with stress, anxiety and depression – mental health issues that may lead to social problems.

No wonder then that to keep a crime at bay, we must nip it in the bud before it manifests in horrible forms. Similarly, fostering community development through local organisations, events, and volunteer opportunities that encourage collaboration and strengths familial and social ties is also vital. Participatory governance is another crucial initiative.  Involving community members in decision-making processes to ensure that their voices are heard and needs addressed leaves no room for resentment that may manifest later on in unsocial behaviour.

Addressing social problems is a collective effort that requires sustained commitment from individuals, communities, and institutions. By focusing on education, community engagement, economic opportunities, mental health, equitable policies, inclusivity, and collaboration, society can work towards fostering a healthier and more harmonised and cohesive society for all, stopping most of social crimes.