India remains among world’s most unsafe countries for women
New Delhi: India, often referred to as the “rape capital” because of its alarming record of sexual violence, continues to rank among the world’s most unsafe countries for women, with rising crimes against women exposing serious shortcomings in the country’s governance and criminal justice system.
According to Kashmir Media Service, weak law enforcement, systemic failures in the justice system and inadequate government response have contributed to a sharp increase in crimes against women, raising serious concerns over the state of women’s rights in the country.
A recent Reuters report said crimes against women in India have more than doubled since 2010. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) show that, on average, more than 80 women fall victim to violence or harassment every day.
Official figures further reveal that 29,536 rape cases were registered across India in 2024, underscoring the scale of sexual violence and the persistent insecurity faced by women.
Experts said institutional failures within the police and judiciary have aggravated the crisis, while the deeply entrenched caste system has further increased the vulnerability and marginalization of women.
Prominent social activist Ranjana Kumari said prolonged delays in the delivery of justice and the failure to ensure punishment for offenders remain the biggest obstacles to curbing crimes against women. She added that the lack of deterrence has emboldened perpetrators.
Senior lawyer Karuna Nundy said the Indian government has failed to take meaningful steps to combat misogyny and violence against women. She said the absence of sustained political commitment has severely weakened the country’s mechanisms for protecting women’s rights and ensuring their safety.
The rising incidence of crimes against women has also drawn concern from international observers. Critics warned that unless India strengthens law enforcement, ensures swift justice and holds perpetrators accountable, the situation is likely to deteriorate further.
