Haryana Tops Northern India in Crimes Against Children for 2023, NCRB Data Reveals
According to the latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Haryana has emerged as the leading state in northern India for crimes against children in 2023, with a staggering 2,044 cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act, 2012. This figure starkly contrasts with neighboring states, where Punjab recorded 782 cases and Himachal Pradesh reported only three cases during the same period.
National Overview: A Disturbing 9.2% Increase in Child Crime Cases
Across India, the situation is alarming, with a total of 1,77,335 cases of crimes against children registered in 2023. This marks a significant increase of 9.2% compared to the 1,62,449 cases reported in 2022. Of these, cases under the POCSO Act accounted for 38.2%, totaling 67,694 incidents, underscoring the pervasive nature of sexual offenses against minors.
Fast Track Special Courts: A Critical Tool for Justice
In response to this crisis, the government has established Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) to expedite trials for victims of sexual offenses. As of January 31, 2026, a total of 774 FTSCs are operational across 29 states and union territories, including 398 exclusive POCSO courts. These courts have disposed of over 3.61 lakh cases since their inception, demonstrating their vital role in delivering timely justice.
State-wise Breakdown of FTSCs and POCSO Cases
Haryana leads with 18 FTSCs, of which 14 are exclusive POCSO courts. In contrast, Punjab has only 12 FTSCs, with merely three dedicated to POCSO cases. Himachal Pradesh operates six FTSCs, including three exclusive POCSO courts, as confirmed by Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal in a Lok Sabha response on March 13, 2026.
Other regions show varied infrastructure: Chandigarh has just one FTSC and no exclusive POCSO court, recording zero POCSO cases in 2023. Jammu and Kashmir has four FTSCs, with two exclusive POCSO courts.
Among larger states, Uttar Pradesh tops with 218 FTSCs, including 74 POCSO courts, and registered 8,574 POCSO cases involving girls in 2023. Madhya Pradesh follows with 67 FTSCs (56 POCSO courts) and 6,429 cases. Kerala has 55 FTSCs (14 POCSO courts) and 3,765 cases, while Bihar and Rajasthan reported 2,307 and 3,556 cases, respectively, with 54 and 45 FTSCs each.
Implications and Call for Enhanced Child Protection Measures
The rising numbers highlight an urgent need for strengthened child protection mechanisms and more robust judicial infrastructure. The disparity in FTSC availability across states suggests that resource allocation and policy implementation must be prioritized to ensure swift justice for all victims. As India grapples with this escalating issue, continued monitoring and proactive measures are essential to safeguard children and reduce future incidents.
