Defying the prevalent notion that women are becoming more susceptible to crime, recent statistics from Bhopal reveal a contrasting reality. Between January and June 2024, the overall crime rate against women has shown a downward trend. Notably, there have been no reported incidents of eve-teasing or gang rape during this timeframe. According to data (available with ‘The Hitvada’) a total of 1423 cases of crime against women were registered under various sections of Indian Penal Code from January to June 2024 against 1528 cases registered during the corresponding period of the previous year thereby a decline of 17% crime against women in Bhopal.

 

Despite the overall decline in crime against women, there has been a 12% rise in incidents involving abusive, humiliating, or defamatory language, as well as obscene acts or words in public. Reliable sources indicate that 694 cases were recorded under Section 294 of the Indian Penal Code, up from 622 in 2023. This section addresses obscene acts in public places and the utterance of obscene songs or words near public areas.

 

There has been a slight decrease in the number of rape cases, with 151 reported in the first half of 2024, compared to 182 during the same period last year, marking a 16% decline. Notably, there have been no complaints of gang rape until June 2024, with only one case reported during the same period last year. Overall, the crime rate against women in urban Bhopal has significantly decreased in the first six months of this year, data indicates. Petty crimes remain prevalent, with the majority involving thefts, fatal accidents, and intimidation.

 

There data also indicates a decline in incidents of attempted murder and chain snatching; number cases of cruelty against women for dowry under the Dowry Act has declined by 95%; while domestic violence remains a concern, with a slight decline of 18%. In the year 2023; the police registered 329 cases under Section 498a of IPC, compared to 270 registered in 2024. This issue still requires attention from members of civic society. As for dowry-related matters, the number of cases has significantly reduced, with only one case reported this year, compared to 19 cases last year.