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 surge in grave offenses against women, including rape, stalking, domestic abuse, and cyber harassment.
Rise in Crime Against Women
According to the NCRB's Crime in India 2024 report released on Thursday, Tamil Nadu recorded 11,363 cases of crimes against women in 2024, a sharp increase from 8,943 cases in 2023 and 9,207 cases in 2022. Despite the rise, the police maintained a high charge-sheeting rate of 93% for these cases.
Sexual Violence a Major Concern
Reporting of crimes involving sexual violence remained a critical issue. The state registered 419 rape cases in 2024, along with 24 cases of sexual intercourse by deceitful means and 33 cases of attempted rape. Additionally, one case of murder with rape or gang rape was recorded, along with three acid attack cases and two attempted acid attacks.
Harassment and Stalking
Harassment-related offenses formed a substantial share of reported crimes. Tamil Nadu saw 1,237 cases of assault on women with intent to outrage modesty and 50 cases of assault or criminal force with intent to disrobe. Sexual harassment cases totaled 421, including 23 workplace harassment complaints. The data also showed 521 stalking cases, 34 voyeurism cases, and 1,911 kidnapping and abduction cases involving women.
Domestic Violence Dominates
Domestic violence-related offenses accounted for the largest portion of crimes against women. 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 reported the highest number of crimes against women with 1,093 cases, followed by Coimbatore with 377 cases.
