Uttar Pradesh Leads Nation in Crimes Against Women, With Maharashtra and Rajasthan Following Close Behind
According to the National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB) 2022 report, Uttar Pradesh has recorded the highest number of crimes against women among the 28 states in India. The state, under Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, registered a staggering 65,743 cases in 2022, marking a significant increase compared to the 56,083 cases reported in 2021. The rise in crime rates against women has drawn attention to the growing safety concerns in the state, which continues to lead in this category.
Maharashtra followed closely behind with 45,331 cases, while Rajasthan recorded 45,058 cases. The NCRB report indicates a general uptick in crimes against women across the country, with the total number of such cases rising by 4% from 428,278 in 2021 to 445,256 in 2022.
Rising Crimes Against Women: Key Statistics from 2022
The report sheds light on the different types of crimes that fall under the category of crimes against women, with the highest number of incidents recorded under cruelty by husband or his relatives, followed by kidnappings, assaults with intent to outrage a woman’s modesty, and rape.
This alarming trend has raised questions about the effectiveness of measures to ensure women’s safety, despite numerous promises and initiatives from political leaders over the years.
- Cruelty by husband/relatives: The largest category, pointing to the ongoing issue of domestic violence.
- Kidnapping and abduction: Continues to be a significant concern for women’s safety across states.
- Assaults and rape: High numbers reflect persistent issues of sexual violence.
Political Context: Yogi Adityanath’s Governance and BJP’s Position on Women’s Safety
The report arrives at a time when women’s safety has become a focal point of political campaigns, particularly in states like Rajasthan, where the BJP had made it a central issue during the recent elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, since assuming office in 2014, had pledged to address the issue of crimes against women, notably with his campaign slogans like “Bahut Hua Naari Par Vaar, Abki Baar Modi Sarkar,” and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative aimed at improving safety and education for girls.
Despite these promises, the continued rise in crimes against women has prompted criticism of the government’s approach, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, where safety concerns have been rising year after year.
Increase in Cyber Crimes and Other Offences
The NCRB report also highlights an increase in cyber crimes, with 65,893 cases reported in 2022, up by 24.4% from 52,974 cases in 2021. This rise in online offences, including harassment, stalking, and fraud, underscores the evolving nature of crime in the digital age.
Additionally, crimes under the category of “offences against the state” saw an increase of 8.6%, with 5,610 cases reported in 2022. This included a significant number of cases under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Growing Concerns and Calls for Action
While the report paints a grim picture, experts and women’s rights organizations are calling for immediate action to address the growing violence against women. Strengthening law enforcement, improving police responsiveness, and creating safer public spaces are critical steps that need to be prioritized.
Moreover, the need for systemic reforms in addressing gender-based violence, coupled with awareness campaigns and empowerment initiatives for women, remains crucial for creating a safer environment for women across the country.
A Wake-Up Call for Policymakers and Authorities
The NCRB’s 2022 report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and civil society to take immediate and effective steps to combat the rising tide of crimes against women. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, among other states, must work towards creating a more secure environment for women, focusing on the prevention, reporting, and prosecution of crimes against them.
As the numbers continue to rise, it is imperative that both state and central governments show greater accountability in addressing this critical issue, ensuring that women’s safety becomes a top priority in political agendas and policies.
