VICTIM ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS IN INDIA: A YEARNING FOR RENAISSANCE IN VIEW OF SCANDINAVIA AND SINGAPORE

AUTHOR – SUBBAIAH NM, STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF LAW, CHRIST UNIVERSITY BANGALORE

BEST CITATION – SUBBAIAH NM, VICTIM ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS IN INDIA: A YEARNING FOR RENAISSANCE IN VIEW OF SCANDINAVIA AND SINGAPORE, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 4 (1) OF 2024, PG. 340-348, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

This study explores the nexus and differences between victim assistance programs in India, Singapore, and Scandinavian nations, shedding light on the diverse approaches and strategies employed to support victims of crime in these regions. While the primary goal of victim assistance programs worldwide is to provide aid and support to those affected by crime, the methods and frameworks employed vary significantly. In India, victim assistance programs primarily rely on a combination of governmental and non-governmental organizations to address the needs of victims. The socio-cultural context in India heavily influences the provision of victim assistance, with a focus on emotional and social support, legal aid, and financial compensation. The study examines the challenges faced by these programs, such as resource constraints and regional disparities, and how they impact the effectiveness of victim assistance in a diverse and populous country like India. Conversely, Singapore adopts a centralized and well-funded approach to victim assistance, often relying on state agencies and law enforcement to provide comprehensive support. This approach ensures a streamlined and efficient process for victims, but the study also investigates potential drawbacks, including the potential for bureaucracy and a lack of diversity in support services. Scandinavian nations, comprising countries like Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark, prioritize a holistic, welfare-based approach to victim assistance. This includes a strong emphasis on mental health support, reintegration into society, and comprehensive legal and financial aid. The study delves into the effectiveness of these holistic approaches and how their success may be attributed to the overall social and economic structures in the Scandinavian context. By examining the successes and challenges of these different models, this research aims to contribute to a broader understanding of global best practices in victim assistance and help policymakers make informed decisions to better serve victims of crime in diverse contexts.

Keywords: Victim assistance programs, Singapore, Scandinavia, Socio-cultural context, Streamlined processes