Police Corruption in Comparative Perspective: Building Trust in the Police in India and China

This book examines the impact of rapid economic modernization on policing in China and India, exploring the extent to which citizens trust the police, the fairness and unbiasedness of their duties, and the prevalence and nature of police corruption. It offers a unique comparative study and provides insights into the relationships between economic development, urbanization, and crime, as well as their effects on police organizational culture and behavior.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Rapid economic modernization in China and India has had a significant impact on policing, shaping the nature and organization of law enforcement in these countries. In this comprehensive book, we explore the prevalence, nature, and organization of police corruption in both nations, offering a unique comparative study.

The book provides valuable insights into the complex relationships between rapid economic development, urbanization, and crime, and their effects on police organizational culture, behavior, and ethical decision-making. It conducts an audit on which country is better positioned to tackle corruption and professionalize its police service.

This book is a significant contribution to comparative research on criminal justice and is essential reading for policing scholars, students of criminology, social and political sciences, development studies, Asian studies, and post-colonial studies. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by law enforcement in these rapidly changing societies and offers valuable insights into the future of policing in China and India.

The prevalence of police corruption in China and India is a complex issue influenced by various factors. In China, rapid economic growth and urbanization have led to increased demand for law enforcement services, but this has also created opportunities for corruption. The Chinese police force is known for its large size, hierarchical structure, and lack of transparency, which can facilitate corruption.

One of the main forms of police corruption in China is bribery. Police officers are often bribed by criminals, businessmen, and other influential individuals to overlook their illegal activities or to provide preferential treatment. This corruption can take many forms, including accepting gifts, accepting kickbacks, and providing false information to investigators.

Another form of police corruption in China is extortion. Police officers may demand bribes from individuals or businesses in exchange for providing protection or services. This corruption can be particularly prevalent in areas where there is a high crime rate, as police officers may use their authority.

Police corruption in India is also a significant issue, but it differs in some ways from its Chinese counterpart. India has a democratic government, a constitution that guarantees citizens' rights, and a robust legal system, which can provide some protection against police misconduct. However, India also faces challenges such as a large population, poor infrastructure, and limited resources, which can make it difficult for law enforcement to carry out their duties effectively.

One of the main forms of police corruption in India is the use of force and coercion to extract bribes or information from individuals. Police officers may use physical violence, threats, and intimidation to extract bribes or to intimidate witnesses or suspects. This corruption can be particularly prevalent in areas where there is a high crime rate, as police officers may use their power to extract bribes or to protect their own interests.

Another form of police corruption in India is the use of nepotism and favoritism. Police officers may be appointed or promoted based on their personal connections or relationships with influential individuals, rather than on their qualifications or merit. This corruption can lead to the appointment of unqualified or incompetent officers, who may then use their positions to engage in corrupt practices.

Police corruption in both China and India can have serious consequences for both the police force and the citizens they are meant to serve. Corrupt police officers can undermine public trust in law enforcement, which can lead to a decline in law and order and an increase in crime. Moreover, corrupt police officers can use their positions to engage in criminal activities themselves, which can further erode public trust and undermine the rule of law.

To address police corruption in China and India, there are several steps that can be taken. One of the most important is to improve the transparency and accountability of the police force. This can be achieved by implementing measures such as open recruitment processes, regular performance evaluations, and whistleblower protections for police officers who report misconduct.

Another important step is to strengthen the legal framework and enforcement mechanisms for combating police corruption. This can include enacting stronger laws against corruption, providing more resources to law enforcement agencies, and strengthening the independence and effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies.

In addition, it is important to promote professionalization and training for police officers. This can include providing comprehensive training on ethical decision-making, anti-corruption practices, and legal procedures, as well as promoting diversity and inclusion in the police force to reduce the potential for discrimination and bias.

Finally, it is important to address the root causes of police corruption, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and healthcare. By addressing these underlying issues, it is possible to create a more equitable and just society, which can reduce the demand for police corruption and improve the relationship between the police and the citizens they are meant to serve.

In conclusion, rapid economic modernization in China and India has had a significant impact on policing, shaping the nature and organization of law enforcement in these countries. Police corruption is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including rapid economic growth, urbanization, and lack of transparency. In China, bribery and extortion are the main forms of police corruption, while in India, the use of force and coercion, nepotism, and favoritism are the main forms.

To address police corruption in these countries, it is important to improve transparency and accountability, strengthen the legal framework and enforcement mechanisms, promote professionalization and training, and address the root causes of police corruption. By taking these steps.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367784614