"UNHEARD VOICES: CRIMES AGAINST WOMEN IN RAJASTHAN - A MIXED-METHODS STUDY OF PREVALENCE, PERCEPTIONS, AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS":

Abstract

Crimes against women are a pervasive problem in Rajasthan, India, with far-reaching consequences for the victims, their families, and society as a whole. Despite the gravity of the issue, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the prevalence, patterns, and perpetrators of crimes against women in Rajasthan. This mixed-methods study aims to fill this knowledge gap by exploring the prevalence of crimes against women, perceptions of victims and perpetrators, and policy implications for addressing this issue. The study employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including a survey of 500 women, 20 in-depth interviews with victims and perpetrators, and a content analysis of policy documents. The findings reveal a high prevalence of crimes against women, with a significant proportion of cases going unreported. The study also highlights the role of socio-cultural and economic factors in perpetuating crimes against women. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for addressing crimes against women in Rajasthan, including strengthening legal frameworks, increasing access to education and employment, and promoting gender-sensitive policing.