Bhubaneswar: For the fourth consecutive year, Odisha has recorded the highest number of police personnel injured in attacks by criminals in India, according to the latest figures from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).
NCRB Data on Police Injuries
The NCRB’s category of “all uniform police personnel injured” has listed causes ranging from attacks by north-east insurgents, left-wing extremists, terrorists, border firing, riotous mobs, criminals, accidental discharge of self-weapons and other accidents. Across India, 1,298 police personnel were injured in 2024 due to left-wing extremism, mob violence, criminal attacks and accidents. Odisha topped the list, accounting for 264 injuries — all attributed to attacks by criminals.
Trend Over the Years
An analysis of previous years’ data highlights a troubling trend for the state. Odisha has consistently ranked either first or second in terms of overall police injuries nationwide. The number of injuries due to attacks by criminals has remained the highest in India — 264 in 2024, 232 in 2023, 202 in 2022 and 176 in 2021.
Police Officials’ Perspective
Police officials attribute this persistent pattern to the growing defiance of law among criminals, who increasingly resist arrest and retaliate during raids. “In all cases, we had to act with restraint despite facing a raw deal from criminals who always exhibit anti-police behaviour. There were instances of criminals opening fire on us during raids,” a senior officer said.
Expert Opinions
Retired SP Jatindra Panda said, “The rising aggression among offenders is a reflection of how emboldened they feel. Police personnel often risk their lives in the line of duty, yet the attacks show no signs of slowing down. This trend needs to be analysed and addressed.”
Experts suggest that the trend points to deeper issues in law enforcement and criminal justice. “It’s not just about policing but also about deterrence and conviction rates. As per the Supreme Court’s directive, police cannot arrest people for offences that have less than seven years of punishment. Criminals have no fear of the police,” criminal lawyer Sidharth Das said.
Police Union Concerns
The NCRB data has sparked concern among police unions as well. “We demand better protective gear, more training in handling armed resistance and stronger legal backing for officers who face violent retaliation,” a representative of the Odisha police officers’ association said.
