Odisha Reports 5.6% Increase in Crimes Against Women in 2025
Bhubaneswar: The state of Odisha witnessed a concerning 5.6% rise in crimes against women in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to official data presented in the assembly. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi provided this information in a written reply to Congress MLA Sofia Firdous on Monday, detailing both the statistical trends and the government's comprehensive response to enhance women's safety across the state.
Statistical Overview of Registered Cases
The number of registered cases escalated from 30,958 in 2024 to 32,687 in 2025, marking a significant uptick that has prompted renewed focus on preventive and judicial measures. This data underscores the persistent challenges in safeguarding women, despite ongoing efforts by law enforcement and community organizations.
Notably, the crime pattern revealed a mixed picture:
- Serious offences such as rape, attempted rape, public disrobing, acid attacks, dowry-related homicide, suicide, and torture showed a decline, indicating some success in tackling high-severity crimes.
- However, incidents of molestation, sexual harassment, voyeurism, stalking, trafficking, eve-teasing, and abduction increased during the period, highlighting areas requiring intensified intervention.
Government Initiatives and Safety Measures
In his reply, Chief Minister Majhi reiterated his government's unwavering commitment to women's safety, outlining a multi-pronged strategy that combines monitoring, technology, and community engagement. A key component is the Crime Against Women and Children Wing (CAW&CW), which actively monitors sensitive cases from investigation through trial, providing crucial guidance to investigating officers to ensure thorough and timely justice.
"Regular monitoring of 'red-flag' cases has been instrumental in fast-tracking trials, with 199 cases completed in 2025. Of these, 94 resulted in convictions, reflecting a conviction rate of 47.25%," Majhi stated. To bolster surveillance, CCTV cameras have been installed at vulnerable points across various districts, creating a more secure environment for women in public spaces.
Subhadra Surakhya Yojana and Future Plans
Under the Subhadra Surakhya Yojana, the government is considering several proactive initiatives aimed at strengthening women's safety infrastructure. Proposals include:
- Development of a women's safety app integrated with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) for immediate assistance.
- Implementation of gender sensitization training programs for law enforcement and community members.
- Establishment of child-friendly police stations to encourage reporting and support for young victims.
- Launch of public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on safety protocols and legal rights.
- Procurement of 1,000 body cameras for police personnel and installation of additional CCTV cameras in crime-prone areas.
Furthermore, district police are taking steps to improve patrolling in vulnerable public places, specifically targeting the prevention of sexual harassment. This enhanced visibility aims to deter potential offenders and provide reassurance to women navigating these areas.
Collaborative Efforts and Judicial Support
The government is fostering partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to support victims and prevent crimes through counseling and rehabilitation services. Cyber police stations are diligently monitoring online abuse cases, addressing the growing threat of digital harassment. Community policing programmes, such as Ama Police Samiti, encourage women to report issues without fear, fostering a culture of trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
Awareness drives in schools and colleges are being organized to promote safety and self-defence among women and children, empowering them with knowledge and skills to protect themselves. On the judicial front, Odisha has established 23 exclusive Pocso courts, seven designated Pocso courts, and 46 women's courts dedicated to the trial of offences against women and children, ensuring specialized and expedited legal proceedings.
These combined efforts reflect a holistic approach to tackling the rise in crimes against women, focusing on prevention, prosecution, and protection to create a safer Odisha for all its residents.
