Abstract
The predicament of crime victims in India during the ancient, medieval, and modern eras is thoroughly examined in this research paper. The study illustrates the changing paradigms in how crime victims have been viewed and treated over time by following the development of societal attitudes, legal responses, and victim typologies. References to Dharmashastra and other classical texts point to a community-based restorative justice system in ancient India, where the greater objectives of social harmony were frequently given precedence over the victim’s suffering. A major change occurred during the Middle Ages, when growing religious and feudal power frequently resulted in the disregard for victims’ rights, particularly for underprivileged groups. Even though statutory provisions and judicial activism have gradually acknowledged the needs and rights of victims, as well as structural issues like insufficient legal assistance, recurrent victimization, and drawn-out court proceedings. This essay categorizes the different kinds of crime victims in each era, investigates the socio-legal systems that surround them, and assesses how easily they have been able to access justice. The paper aims to contribute to current discussions on victim-centric criminal justice reforms by offering a nuanced understanding of victimization in India through historical, legal, and sociological lenses.
INTRODUCTION
Though their plight has frequently been disregarded in legal and social discourse, the experiences of crime victims in India have changed significantly over the ancient, medieval, and modern eras. Ancient Indian writings such as the Manusmriti and the Arthashastra placed more emphasis on social harmony and moral order than on the rights of individual victims. Caste, gender, and status all had an impact on justice, which limited access to fair redress. As Islamic and later colonial rule grew during the Middle Ages, justice systems became increasingly centralized and dominated by power. Systemic neglect was experienced by victims, particularly those from marginalized communities, and they had few options for legal recognition or compensation. Victim rights were marginalized while codification was brought about by colonial laws.
The goal of legal reforms and constitutional guarantees in contemporary India has been to strengthen the status of victims of crime. Despite advancements, victims continue to face obstacles like secondary victimization, a lack of support services, and delayed justice. By examining the kinds of victims and how they were treated during these historical eras, this essay investigates the development of crime victimhood in India. It seeks to draw attention to enduring problems and advance the conversation about victim-centric justice.