Demonetisation impact? Petty crimes dip in Delhi after note ban

Crimes with a financial motive have dipped sharply in Delhi since the government pulled out high-value banknotes, police data show.

The number of robberies, burglaries, extortions and vehicle thefts has fallen in the week beginning November 9, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced demonetisation of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes.

Cases of drug abuse and peddling have come down to nil while gambling cases have halved since November 1-7, police data seen by HT show.

Police believe the trend is a result of demonetisation, with most people engaged in exchanging notes or in ATMs till late in the night. “The circulation of money is less. People are carrying less money, so the vulnerability of victims in snatching or robbery is less,” said a senior police officer.

Another officer said that the decline in crime could also be attributed to increased police presence round-the-clock.

“Because of people withdrawing money late into the night, police are posted outside ATMs and roads round–the-clock. A police van is always on patrol at night since the last 7 days. The crime rates will definitely come down till December 30.”