Chennai: Amid ongoing political debates over women's safety in Tamil Nadu, the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for 2024 reveals a significant increase in grave crimes against women, including rape, stalking, domestic abuse, and cyber harassment.
Rise in Cases
According to the NCRB's Crime in India 2024 report released on Thursday, Tamil Nadu registered 11,363 cases of crime against women in 2024, up from 8,943 cases in 2023 and 9,207 cases in 2022. Despite the rise, the police maintained a charge-sheeting rate of 93% in such cases.
Sexual Violence
Reporting of sexual violence remained a major concern. The state recorded 419 rape cases in 2024, along with 24 cases of sexual intercourse by deceitful means and 33 cases of attempted rape. Additionally, there was one case of murder with rape or gang rape, three acid attack cases, and two attempted acid attacks.
Harassment Offences
Harassment-related offences formed a substantial share of crimes against women. Tamil Nadu reported 1,237 cases of assault with intent to outrage modesty and 50 cases of assault or criminal force with intent to disrobe. Sexual harassment cases stood at 421, including 23 workplace complaints. The data also showed 521 stalking cases, 34 voyeurism cases, and 1,911 kidnapping and abduction cases involving women.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence-related offences accounted for the largest chunk of crimes. The state recorded 3,344 cases of cruelty by husband or relatives, 34 dowry deaths, and 2,042 cases under the Dowry Prohibition Act. Additionally, there were 10 cases under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 74 cases involving procuration of minor girls, and 198 cyber crimes targeting women.
City-wise Data
Chennai recorded the highest number of crimes against women with 1,093 cases, followed by Coimbatore with 377 cases.
