NCJ Number
84653
Date Published
1981
Length
104 pages
Annotation
The victims of homicide in the urban centers of Bangalore and Delhi, India, were studied concerning their roles in the offense, the problems faced by their next of kin, and the assistance available to the next of kin.
Abstract
Information sources included official data and information obtained from experts and from 143 persons who were the next of kin of homicide victims. Homicides were generally committed by single assailants during the evening. Victims tended to be men around 30 years of age who were married and had lived in their neighborhoods for more than 13 years. Victims usually belonged to lower or middle-income groups. Most assailants were relatives, neighbors, or friends. In most cases, the motive for the murder was general enmity. Many bereaved families continued to live in fear because the offenders threatened them with further violence. Almost half of the next of kin were dissatisfied with the functioning of the police. Most bereaved families have faced distress and hardship, particularly in cases where the victim was the breadwinner. Few individuals or voluntary organizations have helped the victims' families, and only 10 percent of the victims were insured. The government offered nominal amounts of cash assistance to 12 families. A coordinated program to help next of kin deal with the police and obtain assistance is recommended. Figures, tables, and 80 references are supplied.