9.
2 Course – II, Opt-III Penology and Victimology
Objectives:
This course offers a specialist understanding of criminal policies including theories of
punishment, their supposed philosophical and sociological justifications and the problem of
exercise of discretion insentencing. In addition the course introduces students to the discipline
of victimology which will shift the study from accused centric approach to much needed victim
centric approach.
Course Outcomes:
On completion of this course, student will be able to-
1. critically analyse the relationships and conflicts that exist between some of the most
important components of the criminal justice system, viz., the state, the accused, the
offenders, and the victims of their crimes.
2. acquire an in-depth understanding and awareness of the criminal justice system and its
components in India.
3. explore the correctional system related to the administration of the criminal justice system.
Contents:
UNIT – I
Introduction: Notion of punishment in law; Difference between crime prevention and control;
Theories of punishments.
UNIT - II
Kinds of punishment; Sentencing policies and processes; the riddle of capital punishment.
UNIT - III
Prison reforms; Alternatives to imprisonment; Victimology- Introduction, history and
philosophy.
UNIT – IV
Victimology- European experience; American experience; Victim witness assistance
programmes; Restitution.
UNIT – V
Victimology - Indian experience; Legal framework; Role of Courts; Role of NHRC.
Prescribed Books:
Edwin H. Sutherland- Criminology.
Ahmad Siddique- Criminology.
V.N.Rajan- Victimology in India.
Reference Books:
H.L.A. Hart- Punishment and Responsibility.
S. Chabra- Quantum of Punishment in Criminal Law.
Herbert L. Packer- The Limits of Criminal sanctions.
