The role of the general public in crime prevention is a big one, especially in India.

Community participation in crime prevention and criminal justice involves the active
cooperation of local residents and organizations and has an impressive history of
accomplishments in many countries around the world. The civil society has better knowledge
of local problems and possesses the capacity to reach out to vulnerable, at-risk segments of
society.

The number of police personnel per thousand people in India is not nearly as much as that of
developed nations like the US or the UK. Hence, public participation in preventing crime
from occurring is essential for law and order to be maintained. There are several ways we can
fulfil this responsibility of ours in.

Being aware plays a significant role here. Without knowing about what’s going on around
you – about what laws are being passed, about who’s being imprisoned, about the measures
being taken by the government to restore peace in different sections of society – you can’t
possibly prevent crime yourself. Therefore, keeping yourself aware, as well as spreading
awareness among others, in itself plays an essential role if you intend to prevent crime around
you.

The media can contribute to a better understanding of the roots of crime, educating the public
on crime prevention strategies and on how to recognize threat factors. However, this may not
always go as planned, because the media may also negatively influence insights of crime and
the measures being taken. If the media over-represents violent behaviour in a community, this
may lead to citizens demanding stronger measures.

Parents, as well as schools and other educational institutions, must instil in children a strong
grasp of right and wrong. If the correct ideology is rooted in children from the very
beginning, they are more likely to speak up against criminal activities, rather than participate
in it themselves.

Prevention of crime is also an obligation of health professionals, particularly in the field of

mental health where undiagnosed or untreated illness can, as we know, lead to the
commission of serious violent crime.

The average Indian citizen, too, can prevent crime in his/her own ways.
Safety audits can reduce crime and safety risks. The results may help authorities, such as
planners, councils and police, to identify crime and safety issues, as well as possible
solutions.

Neighbourhood watch is an internationally recognised method that reduces neighbourhood

crime and increases the area’s safety. The aim is to protect you and your property, improve
your home security, and encourage greater awareness and community spirit.

To avoid getting mixed up in crime ourselves, we must take personal safety measures.
Keeping away from scams and frauds, keeping our business premises and operations safe,
protecting ourselves online and reporting offences, if any, are some of the various methods
we can undertake to ensure our welfare.

Thus, the statement ‘public plays an important role in preventing crime,’ is, I believe,
justified.