Bhubaneswar: National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB’s) newly released ‘Crime in India-2024’ report has introduced a new category — sexual harassment in ‘public place/pathway’ — and the findings paint a sobering picture for Odisha. The state recorded the highest number of such cases in 2024, with 549 incidents, followed by Uttar Pradesh at 198, according to the latest NCRB data.This is the first time the NCRB has created a distinct sub-category under the broader offense of sexual harassment in public places and pathways. Until 2023, the bureau’s data covered harassment at workplaces or office premises, public transport, shelter homes for women and children, and other locations.The state police, however, reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s safety. “We maintain a zero-tolerance stance against those committing crimes against women. Steps are being taken to improve patrolling in vulnerable public places to prevent sexual harassment of women,” a senior police officer said.Police added they are analyzing crime patterns to identify the underlying causes, and implementing measures to curb the menace.Police sources indicated that women experienced misconduct during phone and chain snatching incidents in public places and pathways. Other cases involved inappropriate remarks from unruly and drunk passersby.Most cases occurred during late evenings when women were traveling either alone or with family members, police sources said.The classification of workplace harassment has also been refined by the NCRB. Previously, incidents at offices and other work settings were grouped under a single head. Under the updated framework, work premises now encompass shops, malls, factories and even homes, while office premises are treated as a separate category.The NCRB data gains further weight in light of the National Annual Report and Index on Women’s Safety (Nari), 2025, a private survey finding, unveiled by NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar last August. The report highlighted that harassment in public spaces remained alarming in Bhubaneswar.“Harassment remained a deeply concerning issue in Bhubaneswar, with only 6% of women reporting incidents. What is more disturbing is that none reported using safety apps or digital tools, pointing to a potential gap in awareness or trust in technology-based solutions,” the survey noted.Adding to the concern, chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s written reply in the assembly on March 17, 2025, said that 2,783 women faced misconduct on roads — including state and national highways — between 2020 and 2024. Bhubaneswar alone accounted for 1,341 cases, the highest in the state.Women’s rights campaigner Sradhanjali Swain said the government should ensure better illumination along roads, including the state and national highways. “Adequate and advanced CCTV cameras should also be installed for identification of the criminals. Highway patrolling for the safety of women should be done,” she said.
