The study covered the universe of voluntary workers in the cities of Lucknow and Kanpur who are associated with governmental as well as voluntary institutions, agencies, and organizations in the field of social defense. Data were collected through 12 interview schedules designed for each category of respondents. The interview data were supplemented by information obtained from the study of published and unpublished annual reports and other official records. A total of 934 respondents were selected from a universe of 4,574 persons. Information is provided on the extent and nature of public participation in the administration of criminal justice, the prevention and control of crime and delinquency, corrections, the volunteer probation officers system, and aftercare work. Findings show that while traditional cultural values have long emphasized public participation in the maintenance of social order, the decay of these values has produced a selfishness and apathy that views social defense as the sole responsibility of the state. In addition to a discussion of the institutional framework for public participation in social defense, a social profile of the voluntary worker is provided. Also discussed are the official view of public participation, the clientele of social defense, and the role of voluntary organizations. The concluding chapter presents findings and suggestions for improving public participation in social defense. A bibliography provides about 100 listings, and a subject index is included.