India, June 17 -- How would one live peacefully in a society if there was no one to hold the wrongdoers accountable? Yet, the very mention of the word 'police' still sends chills down the spine of the public. Thus, the idea of the book Policing and Crime Trends in India appears to have been conceived with the objective of shattering several misconceptions and preconceived notions surrounding police and crime in the country. Aiming to chronicle India's police systems and their response to changing crime patterns, author Dinesh Kumar Gupta, who is currently serving in the Indian Police Service (IPS), undertakes the complex task and attempts to transition seamlessly between institutional history while categorising different types of crimes. It's here that the readers develop an interest in exploring the history of Indian police, tracing its origin from the Vedic period till the post-Independence era. Amid this narrative, the account of the crime prevalent in India during the British regime brings to light some astounding facets of this task force, whose history stretches back further than one could keep track of. Touching upon cases specific to offences such as riots, murder, dacoity or theft and even crimes against women, the book documents as much as it can in 160 pages. In doing so, Gupta also delves into the issues of corruption and police misconduct, though some may feel that these themes have not been explored in-depth. However, the segment in which the author discusses the challenges encountered by the police while multitasking and carrying out a range of responsibilities reads quite plausibly. Calling for collaboration in crime prevention, training, societal coordination and international cooperation, this work of writing also tries to create an in-depth analysis of police reforms while setting its goal to provide valuable perspectives in policy discussions. The agenda that the writer takes upon himself is to enhance public safety and promote a positive attitude toward law enforcement. But the bigger question remains: how much of a difference will it make in the long run? Title: Policing and Crime Trends in India Author: Dinesh Kumar Gupta Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan Price: Rs.300...