The Hindu article reports on the Congress party’s criticism of the Modi government regarding women’s safety, citing recently released National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data. The Congress alleges a significant increase in crimes against women under the current administration, despite claims of improved law and order.
Key NCRB data points highlighted include a 53.2% rise in cases of crime against women from 2014 to 2023. Specifically, cases of rape increased from 24,923 in 2014 to 31,574 in 2023, representing a 26.6% increase. Cases of assault with the intent to outrage modesty saw a substantial jump, rising from 19,788 to 28,476 – a 44.2% increase. Kidnapping and abduction of women also increased, from 6,848 to 8,226 cases.
The Congress points to Uttar Pradesh, governed by the BJP, as having the highest number of crimes against women in 2023, with 65,743 reported incidents. They also criticize the government’s ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ scheme, claiming it has failed to deliver on its promises.
Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate questioned the government’s commitment to women’s safety, stating that the NCRB data reveals a grim reality. She further criticized the slow pace of trials in cases of crimes against women, leading to low conviction rates. The party argues that the increasing crime rates demonstrate a failure of law enforcement and a lack of effective policies to protect women.
The article notes the government has not yet officially responded to the Congress’s accusations based on the NCRB data. The Congress is using the data to attack the ruling party ahead of upcoming elections, framing the issue as a critical failure of the Modi government. The party demands accountability and a concrete plan to address the rising trend of violence against women.
