The ruling government of Tamil Nadu has faced sharp criticism from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vanathi Srinivasan, who has accused the administration of failing to address the critical issues of women’s safety and the overall law and order situation in the state. Srinivasan alleged that despite increasing incidents of crime, the government’s approach of merely transferring officials is insufficient and does not guarantee the safety of citizens.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Srinivasan highlighted several recent incidents that she claims underscore the deteriorating security environment. Among these were the brutal murder of a young woman by a car and vandalism in the Thoothukudi district, which she attributed to the rampant use of ganja and alcohol. She further alleged that the uncontrolled proliferation of psychotropic substances has created widespread anxiety among the populace, leading to a fear of loss of life.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the state has seen a significant rise in reported crimes against women. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for 2024 revealed an increase in cases ranging from rape and stalking to domestic cruelty and cyber harassment. In 2024, Tamil Nadu registered 11,363 cases of crime against women, a notable jump from 8,943 in 2023 and 9,207 in 2022. Despite this surge, the police maintained a charge-sheet rate of 93%.
Srinivasan pointed to a trend of daily reports of murders and other offences across the state as evidence of the faltering law and order. She specifically criticized the government’s inaction, stating that the Chief Minister appears indifferent to the safety of women, and that the administration’s insensitive attitude exacerbates the problem. The BJP leader also drew a parallel to the previous government’s alleged failure to control the movement of psychotropic substances, suggesting the problem has persisted.
The NCRB data further detailed that sexual violence against women remains a significant concern. In 2024, Tamil Nadu recorded 419 rape cases, along with 24 cases of sexual intercourse by deceitful means and 33 attempts to commit rape. Additionally, one case of murder with rape or gangrape, three acid attack cases, and two attempted acid attacks were reported. Harassment-related offenses constituted a substantial portion of the reported crimes, with 1,237 cases of assault with intent to outrage modesty and 50 cases of assault or criminal force with intent to disrobe. Sexual harassment cases stood at 421, including 23 workplace complaints.
The data also indicated a considerable number of stalking (521 cases), voyeurism (34 cases), and kidnapping and abduction cases (1,911) involving women. Domestic violence-related offenses formed the largest category, with 3,344 cases of cruelty by husband or relatives, 34 dowry deaths, and 2,042 cases under the Dowry Prohibition Act. Ten cases were registered under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 74 involving procuration of minor girls, and 198 cyber crimes targeting women.
Among major cities, Chennai reported the highest number of crimes against women with 1,093 cases, followed by Coimbatore with 377 cases. While the number of reported cases has increased, Tamil Nadu’s overall crime rate against women remained within the mid-range nationally, a point noted by the NCRB data.
Srinivasan’s criticism comes at a time when the state is preparing for significant political activity, with upcoming assembly elections. The issue of women’s safety and law and order has been a recurring theme in political discourse, with various parties offering different perspectives and solutions. The BJP leader’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the effectiveness of the current administration’s measures to ensure public safety and security, particularly for women.
The BJP Mahila Morcha president, Vanathi Srinivasan, who is also a Member of the Legislative Assembly from Coimbatore South, has been vocal on these issues. She has previously participated in protests and press conferences demanding stricter action against perpetrators of crimes and better enforcement of laws. Her consistent focus on these matters underscores the political significance of women’s safety in Tamil Nadu’s contemporary political landscape. The call for more concrete steps beyond administrative transfers suggests a demand for systemic changes and proactive policing to curb the rise in criminal activities and ensure a safer environment for all residents.
The Chenab Times has learned that the launch of the “Singappen” Task Force, an elite all-women police unit intended to tackle crimes against women, has faced delays, further fueling concerns about the government’s commitment and efficacy in addressing these pressing issues. This delay has drawn criticism from opposition parties, including the BJP, who argue that such initiatives are crucial for bolstering women’s safety and that their postponement is indicative of misplaced priorities. The situation remains a key point of contention in the state’s political discourse, with citizens closely watching for tangible improvements in law and order and the safety of women.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
