Wed Oct 08 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

National Crime Records Bureau data for 2023 reveals a significant rise in crimes against children in India, with Assam, Rajasthan, and Kerala experiencing the steepest increases. In Assam, this surge is attributed to a state-led crackdown on child marriages, leading to a dramatic rise in cases filed under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. Rajasthan saw a shift in the way offenses against children were categorized, with a move towards specific POCSO provisions alongside an increase in kidnapping and abduction cases. In Kerala, the increase appears partly linked to more accurate classification of offenses under specific POCSO sections, accompanied by an increase in the reported cases. While the numbers indicate a concerning trend, it’s crucial to consider that improved reporting mechanisms may contribute to the observed rise, rather than solely reflecting an actual increase in the incidence of crimes.

**News Article:**

**Crimes Against Children Surge in Assam, Rajasthan, and Kerala: NCRB Data**

**New Delhi, October 8, 2025** – Shocking new data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals a concerning spike in crimes against children across India, with Assam, Rajasthan, and Kerala experiencing the most dramatic increases in 2023.

Assam witnessed a near 100% surge in recorded cases, driven primarily by a statewide crackdown on child marriages. Cases filed under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act skyrocketed, accounting for over half of all crimes against children in the state. A photo captures the distress of a woman outside a police station after her husband’s arrest in Assam, highlighting the human impact of this campaign.

Rajasthan’s figures show a 70% rise, attributed to a shift in how offenses are categorized, with a move towards more specific provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Cases of kidnapping and abduction also saw a sharp increase, raising concerns about child safety in the state.

Kerala also reported a significant increase, with POCSO cases on the rise. Authorities are investigating whether this is due to an actual increase in incidents or improved reporting practices.

Nationally, recorded cases of crimes against children increased by 25% in 2023 compared to the average between 2018 and 2022. While the increased numbers are alarming, experts caution that the rise may be partially due to improved reporting mechanisms.

“It is important to note that the rise in cases, particularly those involving crimes against children, may indicate improved reporting, rather than a genuine increase in the incidence of such crimes,” the NCRB report stated.

This report has sparked a national debate on the safety and protection of children, with calls for stricter enforcement of existing laws and increased awareness campaigns to encourage reporting and support victims.

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