INVESTING OFFICER OF SONAM-RAJA CASE Ft. Rajesh Dandotiya

 Introduction: The Changing Nature of Crime in the Digital Age

In recent years, India has witnessed a disturbing increase in violent relationship crimes and cyber-related offenses. What once were isolated incidents have now evolved into a nationwide issue, fuelled by social media exposure, online gaming addiction, and a lack of awareness about digital safety.

This article examines the underlying factors behind these crimes, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the essential role of public awareness in safeguarding society.

The Impact of Upbringing and Social Media on Modern Crime

One of the primary factors contributing to the rise in crimes — particularly marital murders and youth violence — is the combination of poor family upbringing, weak discipline systems, and unrestricted digital exposure.

Many violent tendencies are developing among youth through:

• Social media platforms promoting toxic content
  
  
• Online games involving real-time, violent interaction
  
  
• Cyber grooming by unknown individuals
  
  

The situation is further aggravated in remote and vulnerable areas where educational and social resources are limited.

Understanding Relationship Crimes: A National Concern

India has seen a worrying increase in crimes within marriages and romantic relationships. Psychological factors like ego clashes, infidelity, possessiveness, and financial disagreements are common triggers.

Statistics suggest that in many cases:

• Victims and perpetrators are between 20-30 years old
  
  
• Most have graduate-level education
  
  
• Both men and women equally participate in violent acts, especially in relationship-related homicides
  
  

It highlights the urgent need for emotional education and interpersonal skills development in schools and families.

The Growing Menace of Cybercrime in India

Another alarming issue is the rise of cybercrimes ranging from online blackmail, identity theft, financial fraud, to cryptocurrency scams. Law enforcement has uncovered multiple cases where:

• Blackmailers use compromising photos and videos
  
  
• Fraudsters convert money via crypto exchanges and transfer it abroad
  
  
• Victims are mostly women and young adults
  
  

A significant challenge is the lack of public knowledge on where and how to report such crimes, causing delays in action.

Why Awareness is the Strongest Weapon

Awareness has proven to be the most effective tool in combating both physical and digital crimes. Law enforcement agencies have conducted:

• Over 900 offline awareness sessions
  
  
• Special drives in schools, colleges, hostels, IT companies
  
  
• Cyber safety campaigns on social media
  
  

Despite these efforts, awareness levels remain low, and many victims hesitate to report crimes due to fear of humiliation or lack of information.