Bhubaneswar: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has for the first time introduced a distinct sub-category for sexual harassment in public places and pathways in its 'Crime in India-2024' report. The findings reveal a concerning trend for Odisha, which recorded the highest number of such cases in the country at 549 incidents in 2024. Uttar Pradesh followed with 198 cases.
New NCRB Category
Until 2023, the NCRB's data on sexual harassment covered incidents at workplaces, office premises, public transport, shelter homes for women and children, and other locations. The new sub-category specifically targets harassment in public places and pathways, providing a more detailed picture of the crime.
Police Response
The Odisha police have reiterated the government's commitment to women's safety. A senior police officer stated, "We maintain a zero-tolerance stance against those committing crimes against women. Steps are being taken to improve patrolling in vulnerable public places to prevent sexual harassment of women." Police are also analyzing crime patterns to identify underlying causes and implementing measures to curb the menace.
Incident Details
Police sources indicated that women experienced misconduct during phone and chain snatching incidents in public places and pathways. Other cases involved inappropriate remarks from unruly and drunk passersby. Most cases occurred during late evenings when women were traveling either alone or with family members.
Refined Classification
The NCRB has also refined the classification of workplace harassment. Previously, incidents at offices and other work settings were grouped under a single head. Under the updated framework, work premises now encompass shops, malls, factories, and even homes, while office premises are treated as a separate category.
Women's Safety Surveys
The NCRB data gains further weight in light of the National Annual Report and Index on Women's Safety (Nari), 2025, a private survey unveiled by NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar last August. The report highlighted that harassment in public spaces remained alarming in Bhubaneswar. "Harassment remained a deeply concerning issue in Bhubaneswar, with only 6% of women reporting incidents. What is more disturbing is that none reported using safety apps or digital tools, pointing to a potential gap in awareness or trust in technology-based solutions," the survey noted.
Adding to the concern, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's written reply in the assembly on March 17, 2025, stated that 2,783 women faced misconduct on roads—including state and national highways—between 2020 and 2024. Bhubaneswar alone accounted for 1,341 cases, the highest in the state.
Expert Recommendations
Women's rights campaigner Sradhanjali Swain said the government should ensure better illumination along roads, including state and national highways. "Adequate and advanced CCTV cameras should also be installed for identification of the criminals. Highway patrolling for the safety of women should be done," she said.
