Police and public order are state subjects under the Constitution of India, making it the duty of state governments to prevent, register, and investigate crimes and prosecute criminals. India has seven types of laws: constitutional, criminal, civil, common, statutory, administrative, and family/personal. The Ministry of Law and Justice, established in 1833, is one of the oldest arms of government. Yet, over the years, law and order have weakened due to political interference. Instead of punishing criminals, ordinary citizens often face harassment, while lawbreakers act freely.
The recent daylight attack on social activist Rama Kankonkar at Caranzalem shows a growing disregard for the law. Police have arrested all the accused. Since the attackers are history-sheeters, the assault appears pre-planned. Some believe it was carried out to distract from exposing scams. Another activist also pointed to possible involvement of those with political links. The attack is seen as more than just a crime against one person; it is an attack on democracy itself. Opposition leaders gathered at Azad Maidan seeking justice, but concerns remain that the accused may secure bail and continue their violent activities.
