Odisha Sees Marginal Rise in Crime Rates in 2024, Says CM Mohan Majhi

In a recent statement, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi addressed concerns regarding the state’s crime rates, revealing a marginal rise in criminal activities throughout 2024. This uptick in crime, although relatively small, has garnered significant attention from the public and authorities alike.

The Chief Minister, in his report on the state’s law and order situation, acknowledged that while the rise in crime rates is concerning, it does not reflect an alarming trend, emphasizing the state’s commitment to maintaining peace and security. He assured citizens that the state government is actively working with law enforcement agencies to tackle the issues and prevent further escalation.

According to the statistics released by the state police department, Odisha saw an overall increase in crime by approximately 5% in 2024 compared to the previous year. However, Majhi pointed out that the increase was primarily driven by certain categories of crime such as property-related offenses, cybercrimes, and minor offenses, while violent crimes remained relatively stable.

Property-related crimes, including burglaries, thefts, and robberies, marked a notable rise, with authorities attributing the increase to factors such as economic disparities and rising unemployment rates, which have led some individuals to resort to illegal means for livelihood. The state police have responded by stepping up surveillance in vulnerable areas and increasing patrols in high-crime zones.

One of the most concerning trends, according to CM Majhi, was the increase in cybercrimes, including online frauds and identity thefts. As digital technology becomes more integrated into daily life, Odisha, like many other states, has seen a surge in tech-related criminal activity. Cybercriminals have targeted individuals, businesses, and government entities, often exploiting gaps in online security systems. The Odisha government has vowed to implement stronger cyber regulations and increase public awareness to combat this growing issue.

In addition to property and cybercrimes, minor offenses, including petty thefts and public disturbances, have seen a slight rise, which authorities believe could be linked to social unrest and the growing number of migrant populations in urban areas. The government has promised to address these concerns by improving social welfare programs and providing better opportunities for economic stability.

While the rise in crime rates has sparked concern among the general public, CM Mohan Majhi was quick to highlight that Odisha remains one of the safer states in India. The Chief Minister referenced the state’s long history of relatively low violent crime rates and praised the efforts of law enforcement agencies in curbing more serious offenses. He acknowledged that there were occasional incidents of violence, particularly in rural areas, but assured the public that these instances are closely monitored and addressed with prompt action.

Majhi also outlined the steps being taken to improve the state’s crime prevention systems. He emphasized the importance of strengthening police presence in high-risk areas, enhancing intelligence-gathering mechanisms, and improving the coordination between local police stations. Additionally, the state government has initiated several community outreach programs aimed at building trust between law enforcement and the public, thereby fostering a collaborative approach to crime prevention.

The Odisha government has also pledged to invest in modernizing police infrastructure and equipment, including the installation of more advanced surveillance systems and the expansion of forensic facilities to improve crime-solving capabilities.

The state’s criminal justice system, Majhi assured, would continue to evolve with an emphasis on quick and fair trials, as well as rehabilitation programs for offenders. He urged citizens to report crimes and suspicious activities, reiterating that the police force cannot combat crime effectively without public cooperation.

In conclusion, while Odisha has seen a marginal rise in crime rates in 2024, CM Mohan Majhi’s administration is committed to addressing the challenges through a multi-faceted approach. The Chief Minister remains optimistic that with concerted efforts from both the government and the public, the state will continue to make strides in maintaining law and order, ensuring the safety and security of all its citizens.