From the archive record
In this revealing interview, a police officer name Anil Kumar Gupta (IPS) explains the real meaning of the term “dacoit” in the Chambal region and clarifies common misconceptions. According to him, in local language, a “dacoit” is often referred to as a “baaghi” — meaning a rebel or absconder. The term does not strictly imply traditional village raids or armed robberies. Instead, it broadly describes individuals who have fled after committing crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, dacoity, or even murder. The officer highlights that, in recent developments, kidnapping became a primary activity. After carrying out abductions, criminals would often cross into Uttar Pradesh to seek shelter. He points out that coordination between states was frequently ineffective, with suspicions of local collus