Punjab Police Challenge Stereotypes, Reject Crime Links to Muslims, Dalits, and Adivasis in SPIR 2025 Report

A major survey in Punjab has revealed that most police officers in the state strongly believe Muslims, Dalits, and Adivasis are not naturally inclined to commit crimes. This finding comes from the “Status of Policing in India Report (SPIR) 2025,” released on March 26, 2025, by Common Cause and Lokniti-Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS). The report, the sixth in its series, focuses on police torture and accountability across India, but Punjab’s results stand out for their progressive views compared to other states.

The survey, which included 8,276 police personnel across 17 states and Union Territories, found that over 80% of Punjab’s police officers reject the stereotype that Muslims, Dalits, or Adivasis have an inherent tendency toward criminal behavior. This is a significant departure from attitudes in states like Gujarat, where 68% of police believe Dalits are “naturally inclined” to crime, and Delhi, where 62% hold similar views about Muslims. Punjab’s police show a deep suspicion of such biases, suggesting a more equitable approach to community relations.

The report also highlights Punjab’s unique policing practices. Punjab Police make the highest proportion of arrests for minor offenses like loitering and public nuisance, accounting for 60% of total arrests, far above other states. This indicates a proactive approach to maintaining public order, even though they don’t associate these communities with serious crimes.

On the issue of police torture, Punjab stands out positively. Only 15% of Punjab’s police officers showed a high tendency to justify torture, compared to states like Jharkhand and Gujarat, where up to 50% of officers condone it. Additionally, 30% of Punjab’s respondents had a low propensity to justify torture, and another 30% had a very low propensity. This suggests a stronger respect for human rights among Punjab’s police compared to their counterparts elsewhere.
Punjab also ranks among the states with the least justification for mob violence, particularly in cases related to cow slaughter.

A strong 62% of Punjab’s police said mob violence is “not at all justified,” aligning with states like Kerala and West Bengal, which also show low support for such actions. In contrast, 27% of police nationwide justify mob violence in cases of sexual harassment or kidnapping, and 38% condone it for cow slaughter suspects.

These findings reflect Punjab’s commitment to fair policing and better community relations. The report suggests that Punjab’s approach could influence future policing strategies, encouraging more community outreach and unbiased law enforcement practices. The survey’s results are based on face-to-face interviews with police personnel of various ranks, from constables to Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, conducted at 82 locations, including police stations and courts.

The SPIR 2025 was launched at the India International Centre in New Delhi by a panel of experts, including Justice S. Muralidhar, former Chief Justice of the Odisha High Court, lawyer and activist Vrinda Grover, public health expert Dr. Amar Jesani, and retired IPS officer Prakash Singh, former Director General of Police for Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and the Border Security Force. The report is unique in India for its focus on police misconduct, custodial violence, and accountability, drawing from official data like the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and in-depth interviews with stakeholders.

Despite Punjab’s positive stance, the national picture is concerning. The report notes that 18% of police personnel across India believe Muslims are “naturally prone” to crime, with Hindu officers more likely to hold this view. Victims of police torture are often from marginalized groups, including Muslims, Dalits, Adivasis, and slum dwellers. Nationwide, 30% of police justify third-degree methods for serious crimes, and 25% support mob violence in certain cases. The report calls for urgent reforms, including anti-torture laws, human rights training, and independent oversight to address these issues.

Punjab’s findings offer hope for change, showing that police can reject harmful stereotypes and prioritize fairness. The state’s approach could serve as a model for others, promoting justice and security through better community ties.