NCRB Crime Data: 2024 vs. 2023

Crime Against Women: Trends & Patterns:

While there was a marginal decline in absolute numbers, the nature of crimes continues to reflect deep-rooted domestic and patriarchal challenges.

• Total Cases: Over 4.41 lakh cases were registered in 2024, showing a 1.5% decrease compared to 2023 (4.48 lakh cases).
• Crime Rate: The crime rate per lakh women population dropped to 64.6 (from 66.2 in 2023).
• Leading Categories:
  • Domestic Cruelty: “Cruelty by Husband and Relatives” topped the list with 1.20 lakh cases (27%).
  • Kidnapping & Abduction: The second largest category at 15% (67,829 cases).
  • Modesty & Assault: Assault with intent to outrage modesty accounted for 10.9% (48,303 cases).

Crime Against Children: A Rising Concern:

Contrary to the general trend, crimes against children have seen a sharp and worrying upward trajectory.

• Total Cases: Over 1.87 lakh cases registered in 2024—a significant 5.9% increase over 2023 (1.77 lakh cases).
• Crime Rate: The crime rate per lakh children rose to 42.3 (up from 39.9 in 2023).
• Major Crime Heads:
  • Kidnapping & Abduction: Accounts for the largest share at 40% (75,108 cases).
  • POCSO Act: Cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) reached 69,191 (37%).
• Missing Children: A sharp 7.8% increase was noted, with 98,375 children reported missing in 2024 alone.

Comparative Snapshot: