Himachal Calling: Crimes against women surge in Himachal, urgent action needed

Himachal Pradesh, known for its peaceful and safe environment, is now grappling with a growing challenge — the rising incidence of crimes against women, prompting urgent calls for stricter preventive measures. In recent years, the state has witnessed an alarming increase in crimes such as rape, molestation and abduction, raising serious concerns about the safety and security of women across the state.

According to data from the police department, as many as 1,070 cases of crimes against women have been registered in 2025 (from January 1 to July 31). The majority of these cases involve molestation (319), kidnapping and abduction (290), and rape (232). Other reported offenses include 83 cases of eve-teasing, 82 cases of cruelty to women, along with incidents of abetment to suicide, immoral trafficking and more.

This marks a notable increase from the same period in 2024, during which 948 cases were registered. Comparatively, in 2024, 290 molestation cases, 252 kidnapping and abduction cases, 183 rape cases, 100 cases of cruelty against women and 43 of eve-teasing were registered.

While rape cases have surged by 21.12 per cent, molestation cases have risen by 9.09 per cent, kidnapping and abduction 13.10 per cent, cruelty against women 18 per cent rise and a massive surge of 52.44 per cent has been recorded in eve-teasing cases in just a year.

Shimla district has recorded the highest number of rape cases (33) so far in 2025, followed by Chamba and Mandi (29 each), Kullu (22), Sirmaur (21), Kangra (18), Solan (17), Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) area (14), Bilaspur (13), Una (12), Hamirpur (10), Dehra (five), Kinnaur and Nurpur (four each), and Lahaul and Spiti (one). Shimla district has also witnessed the highest number of molestation (58) and cruelty against women cases (14).

Disturbingly, in many rape and molestation cases, the accused are known to the victim, often resorting to blackmail using private photos or videos to continue the abuse.

A senior police official said the department has taken stern cognisance of the rising crime rate against women in the state. Strict vigil is being maintained and immediate action is ensured in reported cases, which are handled with sensitivity and responsibility. The police are also conducting workshops and awareness campaigns across the state to educate the public about different types of crimes against women and how to stay vigilant.