Crime, Gender and Policing: The Role of Women Officers in Addressing Gender‐Based Violence in India

ABSTRACT This study examines whether an increased presence of women in Indian police forces results in enhanced justice for victims of gender‐based crimes and improves the overall effectiveness and responsiveness of the police. It employs focus group discussions and qualitative system dynamics modelling to examine the dynamics of women in law enforcement. It identified key hypotheses and an archetype supporting social role, identity and justice theories. The findings highlight that increased female police participation enhances crime reporting and victim trust but may lead to underreporting due to informal resolutions, emphasising the need for detailed study and reform. These findings also underscore the importance of sensitising, training and empowering women in policing to strike a balance between alternative dispute resolution and legal accountability. Policymakers should focus on long‐term solutions, such as improving conviction rates, conducting independent crime audits and implementing awareness campaigns, to effectively address gender‐based crimes.