Assam Chief Minister Reports Significant Drop in Rape Cases Since 2020, Outlines Continued Efforts
Guwahati, August 26, 2024 — Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted a notable decrease in reported rape cases in the state since 2020, following a peak in 2019. Sarma revealed that more than 40,000 rape cases have been reported in Assam since 2001, with the highest numbers recorded during both Congress-led and early BJP administrations.
The data shows a peak in 2019 with 3,546 cases. Since then, there has been a significant decline:
- 2020: 1,657 cases
- 2021: 1,733 cases
- 2022: 1,113 cases
- 2023: 989 cases
- 2024 (as of July): 580 cases
In comparison, during the Congress-led government from 2001 to 2016, the peak was in 2014 with 1,980 cases. The BJP administration, under Sarma and former Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, has been addressing the issue since 2016.
Chief Minister Sarma reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling sexual violence, stating, “Every single incident of rape must be condemned unequivocally. We bear the responsibility to eradicate this grave violation of human dignity from our society.”
The Assam government continues to focus on enhancing safety measures and ensuring justice for survivors, reflecting its dedication to reducing crime rates and protecting women’s rights.
