Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 19: India recorded a staggering 1,245,037 cases of crimes against women between 2020 and 2022, the Union government informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. The figures, based on National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, reflect a concerning rise in such incidents, prompting renewed debate around women’s safety and systemic reforms.

In response to a query from Trinamool Congress MP June Maliah, who raised concerns about the rise in sexual violence, particularly in tribal and rural regions like Junglemahal in West Bengal, Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar provided the alarming statistics:

• 2020: 3,71,503 cases
• 2021: 4,28,278 cases
• 2022: 4,45,256 cases

While acknowledging the upward trend, the Minister attributed it partly to increased awareness of women's rights, improved access to police, and gender-sensitisation of law enforcement personnel, which has led to better reporting.

Kumar clarified that since 'Police' and 'Public Order' are State subjects under the Constitution, the primary responsibility for maintaining law and order lies with States and Union Territories. However, the Central Government continues to support them through legislative updates, funding, training, and modern investigative tools.

Legal and Structural Reforms

The Minister highlighted a raft of recent legislative reforms aimed at improving justice delivery and protection for women, including:

• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
• Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)
• Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)

These reforms include:

• Online complaint registration
• Zero FIR provisions (allowing complaints to be filed at any police station)
• Exemptions for women and vulnerable persons from visiting police stations
• Timely victim compensation schemes
• Strict timelines for each stage of investigation and trial, such as:

o Preliminary enquiry: 14 days
o Investigation: 90 days
o Framing of charges: 60 days
o Judgment pronouncement: 45 days
o Maximum two adjournments allowed in such cases

Aparajita Bill Under Review

On the Aparajita Bill, a legislative proposal aimed at strengthening women's safety, Kumar noted that it has been reviewed by relevant ministries. State governments have been requested to submit their opinions and clarifications before any further action is taken.

As crimes against women continue to surge, particularly in underrepresented and rural areas, the government's emphasis on legal reform and timely justice is being closely scrutinized—both for its intent and its implementation on the ground.