Mass Murders in India: An Exploratory Study on the Trends and Patterns
S A Deepak1, Kher Neha1, S Anukrishna1
1School of Behavioural Forensics, National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, India.
Omega
|June 17, 2026
Summary
This study analyzes 220 mass murder incidents in India (2000-2022), revealing unique trends in weapon types and offender behavior compared to Western research. It highlights the need for culturally specific analysis of mass murders in India.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Forensic Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Mass murder research is predominantly Western-centric, with a significant gap in studies from India.
- Existing literature lacks comprehensive analysis of mass murder dynamics within the Indian subcontinent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the absence of mass murder research in India.
- To explore trends, victim-offender profiles, crime characteristics, and contributing factors of mass murders in India.
- To identify unique variables influenced by India's cultural context.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive and exploratory research design was employed.
- Analysis of 220 mass murder incidents in India between 2000 and 2022.
- Focus on geographical distribution, victim-offender demographics, weapon typologies, and post-murder actions.
Main Results:
- Findings largely align with previous international research on victim-offender profiles and crime scene characteristics.
- Significant divergences were observed in weapon types utilized and offender post-murder behaviors.
- Unique variables emerged, attributable to India's distinct socio-cultural landscape.
Conclusions:
- Mass murders in India share some commonalities with global patterns but exhibit distinct characteristics.
- Understanding the influence of India's unique cultural context is crucial for a comprehensive analysis.
- Further research is warranted to explore the newly identified variables in Indian mass murders.
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