Performance of Controlling Rape in India: Efficiency Estimates across States

Abstract

This paper addresses the performance of Indian states in controlling sexual assault or rapeon the basis of the data published bythe National Crime Record Bureau in Indiaon the rape or sexual assault control performances of 28 major Indian states. The relative efficiencies of the states are evaluated by applying stochastic frontier analysis on two decadal periods, ending in 2001 and 2011. Among the Indian states, although Kerala is recognised as the region where women are very progressive, our findings suggest that, unfortunately, the performance of the state in controlling sexual assault is not impressive. On the contrary, Gujaratseems to be the most efficient state in controlling rape. The results also show that not all states with better rape control instruments have efficient control over sexual assault. The study concludes that investment only to improvelaw and order would not result in better control of sexual assault. Efficient management of the investments in the crime-control instruments along with improvement in social indicators, viz. female education, a favourable sex ratio, etc., are required for efficient control of sexual assault.