Sad state of affairs: Rape conviction down, rapes increase

New Delhi, Feb 27: The conviction rate of rape cases in the country over the years show a declining trend, with just over 25 percent accused getting convicted in 2011.

On the other hand, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for the period 2009-11 showed increasing number of rape cases in the country.

"As per information by the NCRB, a total number of 21,397, 22,172 and 24,206 cases of rape were reported in the country during 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively, thereby showing a rising trend," Minister of State for Home R P N Singh told Rajya Sabha in a written reply today.

The minister said the conviction rate of rape cases over the years indicate a declining trend. The conviction rates were 44.3 per cent in 1973, 37.7 per cent in 1983, 26.9 per cent in 2009, 26.6 per cent in 2010 and 26.4 per cent in 2011.

"The President on February 3, 2012 has promulgated Criminal Law (amendment) Ordinance 2012 on crimes against women which enumerated all types of sexual crimes against women. "It also proposes enhanced punishment for other crimes of sexual harassment against women. In addition, amendments are made to CrPC and Indian Evidence Act to protect the rights of victims of sexual assault," the minister said.

PTI