Chennai, May 8:
Tamil Nadu recorded a sharp increase in crimes against women in 2024, with 11,363 cases registered across the State, according to the latest data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).
The figures show a significant rise compared to previous years. The State had reported 8,943 cases in 2023 and 9,207 cases in 2022, indicating a steady upward trend in offences targeting women.
Despite the increase in reported crimes, police maintained a charge-sheet filing rate of nearly 93 per cent in cases related to crimes against women, reflecting faster investigation and prosecution efforts.
Among the major offences recorded during 2024, Tamil Nadu registered 419 rape cases. The NCRB data also listed 24 cases involving sexual intercourse by deceitful means and 33 cases of attempted rape.
The State reported one case involving murder linked with rape or gang rape. In addition, three acid attack cases and two attempted acid attack cases were registered during the year.
The data further highlighted a rise in harassment-related crimes. Tamil Nadu recorded 521 stalking cases and 34 voyeurism cases in 2024.
Kidnapping and abduction cases involving women also remained a major concern, with the State reporting 1,911 such incidents during the year.
Domestic violence-related offences continued to form a significant portion of the crimes against women category. According to NCRB statistics, Tamil Nadu recorded 3,344 cases of cruelty by husbands or relatives.
The State also registered 34 dowry death cases and 2,042 cases under the Dowry Prohibition Act, pointing to the continuing prevalence of dowry-linked harassment and abuse.
Among major cities in Tamil Nadu, Chennai recorded the highest number of crimes against women with 1,093 cases. Coimbatore followed with 377 reported cases.
The NCRB report is likely to intensify discussions over women’s safety, law enforcement measures, and the effectiveness of existing protection mechanisms in the State.
Experts have often pointed out that rising numbers may also reflect increased awareness and willingness among women to report crimes, though the steady growth in serious offences continues to remain a major concern for authorities and policymakers.