Socio-economic Factors of Crime: An Analysis of Age, Education, and Income Level among the Prisoners of Central Jails in Manipur

Abstract

The crime rate in India, particularly in the Northeast, has recently increased, yet research remains limited. The current study examines the socio-economic factors of criminal activity in Manipur through surveys including 416 prisoners in two central jails. The findings show that interpersonal conflicts (120 prisoners) and economic weakness (117 prisoners) are the most common factors of criminal activity. Gender variations are also recorded, with men being most influenced by interpersonal conflicts (118 cases) and women by economic factors (26 cases). Chi-square statistical analysis shows significant associations between criminal activity and age (χ² = 17.338, p = 0.027) and education level (χ² = 26.194, p = 0.01). The study points to the role of socio-demographic determinants in criminal activity and highlights the need for policies to address the financial struggle, education gap, and social conflicts to reduce the crime rate in the region.