Nagpur: A recent data released by Nagpur City Police and a report in a local daily has unveiled a distressing reality, indicating a shocking 30 percent increase in crimes against women over the past three years in the Second Capital of Maharashtra. This unsettling trend not only paints a bleak picture of the safety of women in the city but also raises serious concerns about the efficacy of existing preventive measures by police.
According to the police data, in 2021, the police recorded a total of 1,122 cases involving crimes against women and domestic violence. The breakdown of these cases reveals a disturbing facts and figures with 234 cases of rape, 356 cases of molestation, 415 cases of kidnapping, and 117 cases related to dowry and domestic violence.
Regrettably, the situation worsened in 2022, with reported cases reaching 1,285, and the trend continued its ominous trajectory into 2023, registering a total of 1,467 cases. When comparing the data from 2021 to 2023, a staggering 30.7 percent rise in reported incidents against women becomes evident. Rape cases increased by 5.6 percent, molestation cases surged by 33.4 percent, and kidnapping cases witnessed a 15.4 percent increase.
While cases of dowry and domestic violence remained constant at 235 cases in both 2022 and 2023, despite fluctuations in other crime categories, the overall surge in crimes against women demands urgent attention and concerted efforts from both law enforcement and society at large.
A retired police official emphasized that behind these statistics are real people who have become victims of heinous crimes. He stressed the urgency for proactive measures, stating, “Prevention is the key. We must address the root causes, educate the public, and create a culture that condemns violence against women. There is a crucial need for improved support systems for the victims to ensure their safety and well-being.”
The rise in crimes against women serves as a stark reminder of the collective responsibility to foster a safe and secure environment for all citizens. It is a call to action for comprehensive strategies, community involvement, and stringent measures to reverse this concerning trend and ensure the safety and dignity of women in Nagpur.
Breach of trust within close circles:
The data for 2023 further revealed distressing details. Out of the 247 reported rape cases, 75 involved on the pretext of marriage, while 55 were attributed to love relationships. A maximum of 115 incidents of rape were committed by relatives or acquaintances, which highlight a breach of trust within close circles. This is a shame on the face of civilized society. Parents must play an active role in guiding their children. Parents must not only provide facilities but also pay attention to their children’s activities and foster open communication. Building a relationship based on trust and guidance is crucial in preventing such incidents in the future, the report stated.
