Argus News - White Paper in Assembly: Odisha Witnessed Eight Cases of Rape Each Day in 2025; Naxalism On Decline

Bhubaneswar, Mar 25: A white paper released by the state Home Department has presented a detailed overview of the law and order situation in Odisha, recording 2,29,881 cognisable offences in 2025.

Over 2.29 Lakh Cognisable Offences Registered
A total of 2,29,881 cognisable offences were recorded across the state during 2025.

These included 1,304 cases of murder, 353 cases of dacoity, 1,802 cases of robbery and 6,282 burglary cases. Authorities also registered 6,053 cheating cases and 1,095 incidents of rioting, the report said.

Crimes Against Women Remain a Concern
Crimes against women continued to be a major concern, with 2,994 rape cases reported in 2025, which makes an average of more than eight cases per day.

The report also documented 164 cases of human trafficking and 145 dowry death cases, highlighting ongoing social challenges.

Rise in Cybercrime and Narcotics Cases
Cybercrime emerged as a significant issue, with 2,803 cases registered during the year.

In addition, 1,538 cases related to narcotics offences were recorded, indicating continued enforcement action against drug trafficking.

Road Accidents Add to Safety Concerns
Road safety remained a concern, with 12,782 motor accident cases reported across Odisha in 2025.

BNS Implementation Reflected in Case Data
According to the report, 1,98,513 cases were registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), reflecting the rollout of the new criminal law framework.

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Maoist Activity Shows Decline
The report noted a decline in Maoist activity, with limited incidents reported from nine districts such as Kandhamal, Boudh, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Nuapada, Balangir, Malkangiri, Koraput and Nabarangpur as well as parts of Rourkela. Only three incidents of violence were reported in Rourkela, while no major Maoist violence was recorded elsewhere, as per official data.

Security forces killed eight Maoists in separate exchanges of fire, while 17 others were neutralised during joint operations along the Odisha–Chhattisgarh border.