Vadodara: For decades, Gujarat has been regarded as one of the safest and most peaceful states in India. However, the latest data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for 2024 paints a starkly different picture. Violent crimes in the state have surged dramatically, rising from 9,015 cases in 2022 to 11,967 in 2024—a staggering 32 percent increase in just two years.
Rise in Assaults and Violent Acts
The NCRB report highlights a significant uptick in assault and other violent offenses. After a slight dip from 9,105 cases in 2022 to 8,976 in 2023, violent crime numbers skyrocketed in 2024. The crime rate, calculated as cases per 1 lakh population, stood at 16.5 in 2024. The data indicates that the highest number of violent offenses were those classified as causing grievous hurt.
Alarming Increase in Grievous Hurt Cases
There has been an alarming rise in assault and brutality, with grievous hurt cases reaching 6,968 in 2024. Murder cases remain a significant concern, with 964 people killed in 2024, compared to 968 murders in 2023. Additionally, 839 incidents of attempted murder were reported in 2024, while 1,247 cases of kidnapping were registered.
Psychiatrist Points to Rising Intolerance
Dr. Gautam Amin, a Vadodara-based psychiatrist, commented on the trend: "Overall, the incidence of violent crime is increasing. There are various factors behind it, but one key reason is heightened intolerance levels. People are losing their tempers quickly and becoming violent due to the frustrations of modern life." He added, "Stress levels are high due to the competitive environment, and social media has added further pressure through constant comparisons. We also see a lot of road rage incidents, which was not common in Gujarat earlier."
Petty Quarrels and Love Affairs Drive Murders
According to the NCRB figures, petty quarrels were a major cause of murders in 2024, accounting for 292 cases. Love affairs led to 144 murders, while illicit relationships were responsible for 52. Enmity was the motive behind 192 murders, and family disputes resulted in 79 deaths. Notably, three murders were linked to witchcraft in Gujarat.
