Rethinking Zero Tolerance: Lessons From Global Practices For India
- IJLLR Journal
- Feb 28
- 1 min read
Ishaan D. Joshi CFPSE CFMLE, The University of Edinburgh Law School
ABSTRACT
Zero-tolerance policing, a strategy characterized by strict enforcement of minor offenses to prevent major crimes, has been widely debated for its effectiveness and ethical implications. This approach gained global prominence through New York City's adoption of CompStat in the 1990s, which significantly reduced crime rates but also raised concerns about over- policing and community alienation. In India, similar models have been implemented, most notably in Uttar Pradesh’s 2024 anti-gang drives, which aimed to dismantle organized crime networks but faced criticism for instances of custodial violence and human rights violations. This article critically evaluates the zero-tolerance policing model by comparing global practices, such as New York’s reforms, to Indian initiatives like the Uttar Pradesh anti-crime operations. It highlights the risks of excessive enforcement, including erosion of public trust, socio-economic biases, and potential legal overreach. Furthermore, the analysis emphasizes the need for balancing strict enforcement with safeguards to uphold human rights and accountability. By integrating lessons from global practices and aligning them with local legal frameworks like the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, this article proposes a restorative approach to crime prevention. Such a model can ensure effective policing while fostering community trust and addressing systemic challenges in India’s justice system.
Keywords: Zero Tolerance, Policing Reform, Crime Reduction, UP Anti- Gang Drive, India
