Mumbai University | Criminology & Correctional Administration PYQ | Nov 2023


Criminology is not merely the study of crime—it is the study of human behaviour, social failure, and the State’s response to deviance. For law students, this subject demands more than definitions; it requires the ability to apply legal principles to real-life situations, as reflected in university examination patterns.

Mumbai University’s previous year question papers offer a clear window into what the examiner actually expects from students of Criminology and Correctional Administration. When analysed carefully, these questions reveal the core syllabus, recurring themes, and areas of high scoring potential.

This blog presents a cleanly rewritten and error-free version of a previous year question paper, designed not just for reading, but for active practice. Each question has been structured in a clear, student-friendly format so that learners can test their understanding, improve answer-writing skills, and align their preparation with examination standards.

For the benefit of students, a downloadable practice file has also been provided alongside this blog, enabling systematic revision and self-assessment.

Mumbai University | Time: 2 Hours | Marks: 60


Question 1. Answer any SIX of the following. (Each answer should not exceed two sentences.)             (12 Marks)

  1. What is Criminology?
  2. Define Juvenile Delinquency.
  3. What is meant by a Special Home?
  4. What are the objectives of punishment?
  5. State any two causes of corruption.
  6. What is an Observation Home?
  7. What is Victimology?
  8. Explain the meaning of Organized Crime.
  9. Define a Juvenile in Need of Care and Protection.
  10. Who is a Probation Officer?

Question 2. Write short notes on any TWO of the following. (12 Marks)

  1. Juvenile Justice Board
  2. Cyber Crimes
  3. White Collar Crimes
  4. Preventive Theory of Punishment

Question 3. Answer any TWO of the following problem-based questions. (12 Marks)

1. Organized Crime and Joint Liability:

‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’, and ‘D’ are involved in an organized criminal activity. During the commission of the crime, ‘B’ commits murder.

a) Discuss the criminal liability of all the accused persons.
b) Suggest five measures to curb organized crime.


2. Corruption and Prisoners’ Rights:

‘A’ was falsely implicated in a murder case and remained in prison as an under-trial for more than five years. ‘B’, a police officer, demands a bribe to ensure humane treatment in prison.

a) Advise ‘A’ regarding the legal remedies available in such a situation.
b) Suggest any two measures to protect prisoners from corrupt prison officials.


3. Life Imprisonment, Probation, Parole and Furlough:

Dhanu, a habitual offender, is convicted of rape and sentenced to life imprisonment.

a) Can he be released? If yes, under which legal provisions?
b) Distinguish between probation, parole, and furlough.


4. Criminal Responsibility and Abetment

A woman kills her son after being persuaded by a self-styled baba, believing that the act would bring her closer to God.

a) Explain the offence committed by the woman.
b) Explain the offence committed by the baba.


Question 4: Answer any TWO of the following descriptive questions.
(24 Marks)

  1. Discuss the scope and importance of Criminology.
  2. Explain the Sociological School of Criminology.
  3. Should capital punishment be abolished? Discuss with reasons.
  4. Explain prison reforms in India in detail.

✍Conclusion

Criminology is a subject where clarity of thought matters as much as legal knowledge. Writing precise, well-structured answers—especially in problem-based and descriptive questions—often makes the difference between an average and an excellent score.

By practising previous year questions in a disciplined manner, students not only strengthen their conceptual foundation but also develop the confidence to handle unfamiliar fact situations in the examination hall. This rewritten question paper is intended to serve exactly that purpose: practice with direction, not guesswork.

Students are encouraged to download the attached file, attempt the questions under timed conditions, and critically evaluate their answers with reference to statutory provisions and relevant case laws. Regular engagement with such papers transforms preparation from passive reading into active legal reasoning.

Ultimately, mastery in criminology lies in understanding crime not just as an offence, but as a social phenomenon demanding a balanced response of law, reform, and justice.


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