Bhubaneswar, February 23: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi revealed on Monday that the state witnessed 2,994 rape cases and 7,382 molestation incidents in 2025.
In his address to the Assembly, Majhi also highlighted several other alarming statistics, including 1,183 cases of sexual harassment, 115 attempted rapes, 1,448 cases of public disrobing, and 7,378 instances of women abductions. The report also covered 127 voyeurism incidents, 4,361 dowry-related torture cases, and 5,419 non-dowry torture cases.
Additionally, 757 eve-teasing cases, 702 violations under Section 69 of the BNS, two cases under Section 68 of the BNS, 485 stalking reports, one acid attack attempt, 111 instances of human trafficking, 145 dowry-related homicides, and 77 dowry-linked suicides were registered in the state in 2025.
In response to these figures, the Chief Minister emphasized that his government has taken proactive measures to combat crimes against women. The Crime Against Women & Children Wing, based in Bhubaneswar, is actively monitoring the investigation of high-priority 'red-flag' cases. Investigators have been instructed to expedite probes and keep a close watch on the legal proceedings in such sensitive cases.
To further strengthen the response, dedicated Investigative Units for Crimes Against Women have been set up in various districts. These units focus on the investigation of crucial and sensitive cases. Furthermore, the state has established Integrated Anti-Human Trafficking Units in all 36 police districts, alongside a specialized unit at the Crime Against Women & Children Wing. These units specifically handle cases of missing women and children.
The Odisha government has also implemented various initiatives to ensure greater safety for women and children. Among the steps taken are the installation of CCTV cameras in public spaces, the construction of women’s hostels and toilets, the appointment of special public prosecutors for cases involving women and children, and the launch of awareness campaigns in rural areas.
