It just recently occured to me that most travel boards are full of warnings and tips to avoid being the victim of a crime - i.e. pick pocketing, bag grabbing, etc., all of which I've experienced in Saigon, Rome, Mexico, and Merida, Venezuela. But I never read about anyone having that problem in India. I can't believe that, given the connection between poverty and crime, that it doesn't exist? Does it happen? If not, why? I haven't been in a Hindu country, other than 3 trips to Bali, but it it the Hinduism? Looking forward to actual experiences and any religious or cultural explanations.

Well considering there are 300 million or so Muslims in India, as well as a goodly nunmber Jains, Parsees, Buddists, Sikhs, and Christians I would say it is NOT just the Hinduism. I can't explain the lack of crime, altough I can certainly attest that there seems to be very little of it in India. I do think petty theft like pickpocketing occurs, but on quite a small scale. Hopefully these types of crimes will not increase as touristm does. (Agree on the Saigon, it is really the only place I have ever felt unsafe while traveling in SE Asia). Rome may be just the sheer number of tourists, too much temptation given those numbers.

But it it the Hinduism?

Why would you think that way?

Cicerone can you elaborate on why you felt unsafe or threatened in Saigon? I don't remember feeling that way when I was there 8 years ago; hope to return next winter so curious....Thanks.

I too am confused re the comments on Saigon. I have visited on 4/5 occasions and never once have I felt unsafe in any way

Saigon has a bad rep, especially for bag snatching by guys on motorbikes. I never felt unsafe there, but my first day, the doorman stopped me on the way out of my hotel to tell me I needed to be more careful with how held my belongings or else they might be snatched.

I too felt totally safe in Saigon..but i was warned by many locals to hold on to my purse better...

And i don't know why India doesn't seem to have that problem...i have been 4 times and didn't have any problems...But i am sure the possiblility exists...

Many years ago when I was in India I had two attempts to pick my pocket (both in Delhi) an attempt to sell me drugs in Bombay and a minor theft in Varanasi. The main annoyance was that auto-rickshaws and taxis routinely overcharged.

Not bad for two times seven weeks travelling all around India. I would have no hesitation in going back tomorrow.

a. Stealing, robbery & other criminal activity is not sanctioned by Hinduism. In fact, it is looked down upon as something morally, culturally & socially reprehensible, to indulge in such activities. English historians, who took a deep insight into Hindu character & culture (and who btw had no axe to grind) have repeatedly pronounced Hindus as gentlemen.
b. There were certain sects or tribes, who do not form part of Hinduism, given to criminality. Their gods are those which have been from ancient times, associated with violence, vandalism, assassinations or swindling. These people were called ‘Thugs’ in old English. Thuggy was banned by lord William Bentick in 1829 & major Sleeman? Given the responsibility of eliminating these tribes who situated in Central India. The thugs were dealt with mercilessly. Their families were converted to Christianity. By the end of nineteenth century the roads were cleared of these elements. Through the process of acculturation, these tribes have been reformed.
c. By and large, the caste & class are synonymous economically, though caste is not coterminous with class. There are certain areas where criminal activity is fostered by socio-economic conditions. These areas centre around the chambal ravines including the districts of Bhind, Datia, Etawah & Morena, about 60 miles south of Agra. Other areas suspect in my eyes, is the western parts of UP, south of Moradabad & spreading towards Aligarh & Hathras. It is therefore not recommended to travel or take long journeys, in these areas after sundown.
d. Rajasthan & Uttaranchal is perfectly safe & no one will accost you even in late hours. BTW, Rajasthan police & judicial system is renowned for swift retribution.
e. Pick pocketing & bag grabbibg can take place anywhere if you are not careful.
Hope this helps!

Interesting summary, vp, thanks! I'd forgotten about the Thugs. It's certainly true that I had no problems with pickpockets in India, instead having to deal with persistent beggars, touts and rickshaw drivers. BTW, in 2001 there were a lot of warnings about bandits in Bihar province, and the train from Kolkata to Varanasi carried armed guards. Has that situation cleared up?

In almost 3 months we had only one problem - my husband shoes were stolen outside a temple. So, be sure to find the checked shoes stand at each temple entrance to avoid that.