Bhubaneswar: Shocking but true! Atrocities against women continue to be on the rise in the twin cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar as 180 rape incidents were reported in 2017, as per the annual crime statistics released by the Commissionerate police.
The situation can be considered alarming given the fact that 138 rape cases were registered in the previous year in 2016.
As most of the survivors are minor girls, it is now being considered as a matter of concern for the law enforcement agencies including Commissionerate Police.
Out of the total 180 cases, 110 rapes happened in cases of elopement & love.
Taking cognizance of such a trend, senior officials of Commissionerate Police are now contemplating to launch awareness campaigns.
"Our prime focus is on conducting a detailed probe into crimes against women and children," said Police Commissioner YB Khurania.
As per the annual crime statistics, a 4.3% increase in crime has been reported in the twin city as nearly 11,238 cases were registered in 2017 against 10,774 in 2016.
Casualties in motor vehicle accidents also registered a steep hike as 147 people were killed in several road mishaps on the National Highway in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar while the total number of such accidents was 322.
Out of the total 595 accidents on other roads, 153 persons were killed with highest deaths being reported in Bhubaneswar (103).
"We have prepared a roadmap to minimize loss of life and property in road accidents in 2018-19. We will launch several campaigns on road safety," Khurania added.