Understanding Crime in India 2023: Highlights from The NCRB Report

According to the NCRB report 2023, there is a disturbing increase in the crimes committed against women, children, SC/ST, and cyber offences. There was a great difference in reporting and charge-sheeting rates by states and metros, which revealed law enforcement gaps. Although there were positive gains in certain areas in terms of conviction rate, the general statistics highlight the dire necessity of a system change. The inability to validate the data on time and to publish it at least once a year also worsens the response to the policies. These lessons ought to lead to more robust protection systems, efficient data, and responsible policing in India.

Important Key Factor of NCRB Report

• In 2023, the general crimes increased by 7.2% with more than 62.4 lakh cases being registered.

• The number of murder cases fell by 3 per cent, with the figures standing at 27,721 cases against 28,552 in 2022.

• The highest numbers of murders were reported in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Maharashtra.

• The number of rape cases was 29,670, and Rajasthan led the table.

• The crimes against foreigners grew by 24 per cent, and human trafficking decreased by 3 per cent.

• There was a 4.7% increase in property offences, with theft the most frequent.

• More than 4.8 lakh missing persons were reported in the country.

• The items that were seized include 82,756 illegal arms and counterfeit currency, with a value of 16.8 crore.

About NCRB 

• It was set up in 1986 as a department of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

• Main database on crime and criminal information.

• Operates CCTNS to monitor crimes on a national level.

• Important reports: Crime in India, Accidental Deaths and Suicides, Prison Statistics.

• The current Director is IPS Alok Ranjan (1991 batch), who is concerned about modernisation.

Conclusion

Recent crime statistics of 2023 indicate that total cases have increased by over 7 per cent and surpassed 62 lakh cases in the country. There was a slight decrease of 3 per cent in murder cases and an increase in crimes against women, as Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh registered the highest cases. There was a sharp increase in cybercrime that was spearheaded by financial fraud and identity theft. Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, also increased. Cases of missing persons were still very high and proved the necessity to strengthen policing, the use of improved technologies, and preventive safety measures.