Himachal Alert: Rising Crimes Against Women Demand Immediate Action

Once known for its peaceful and safe environment, Himachal Pradesh is now grappling with a growing challenge — a sharp rise in crimes against women, underscoring the urgent need for stricter preventive measures. In recent years, the state has witnessed alarming increases in cases of rape, molestation, and abduction, raising serious concerns about women’s safety across the region.

According to police data, 1,070 cases of crimes against women were registered between January 1 and July 31, 2025. The majority were cases of molestation (319), abduction (290), and rape (232). Other reported offenses included 83 cases of harassment, 82 cases of cruelty against women, and incidents involving abetment to suicide, immoral trafficking, among others.

This marks a significant rise compared to the same period in 2024, when 948 cases were recorded. Last year’s figures included 290 molestation cases, 252 abductions, 183 rapes, 100 cases of cruelty against women, and 43 harassment cases.

The year-on-year comparison reveals worrying trends: rape cases have risen by 21.12%, molestation by 9.09%, abduction by 13.10%, cruelty against women by 18%, and harassment has seen the steepest rise — 52.44% in just one year.

District-wise, Shimla reported the highest number of rape cases in 2025 (33), followed by Chamba and Mandi (29 each), Kullu (22), Sirmaur (21), Kangra (18), Solan (17), the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) belt (14), Bilaspur (13), Una (12), Hamirpur (10), Dehra (5), Kinnaur and Nurpur (4 each), and Lahaul-Spiti (1). Shimla also topped the list for molestation cases (58) and cases of cruelty against women (14).

What is particularly alarming is that in many rape and molestation cases, the accused were known to the victims. In several instances, perpetrators exploited private photographs or videos to blackmail and continue the abuse.

A senior police officer said the department has taken serious note of the rising crime rate against women in the state. “We are ensuring prompt action in all registered cases, which are being handled with sensitivity and responsibility,” the officer stated. He added that the police are also conducting workshops and awareness campaigns across Himachal to educate people about different forms of crimes against women and to encourage vigilance.