Violent crimes rise sharply amid rapid urban growth

Bengaluru has emerged as the third most violent metro in India, according to the Crime in India 2023 report released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). The city, long known as a tech and administrative hub, has posted the steepest increase in violent crimes over the past three years, highlighting the challenges posed by its rapid growth and urban pressures.

In 2023, Bengaluru recorded 3,528 violent crime cases, placing it behind Delhi (11,014) and Mumbai (4,750), but ahead of Hyderabad (1,483), Chennai (973), and Kolkata (919). Experts note that while Delhi and Mumbai continue to log the highest absolute numbers, Bengaluru’s growth rate in violent offences is a matter of concern.

Understanding violent crimes

The NCRB categorises violent crimes as murder, rape, kidnapping and abduction, attempt to murder, robbery, dacoity, arson, and rioting. Often referred to as heinous crimes, these offences serve as a key marker of public safety in urban areas.

Bengaluru’s statistics paint a worrying picture. The city registered 219 murders in 2023 — lower than Delhi (500) and Mumbai (300) but noticeably higher than Chennai (132) and Hyderabad (148). Rape cases numbered 277, compared to 1,210 in Delhi, while kidnapping and abduction incidents stood at 1,089, far exceeding Chennai (498) and Hyderabad (713). Robbery cases in Bengaluru totalled 1,123, behind Delhi’s 2,917 but ahead of all other southern metros.

Factors behind the rise

Experts caution against simplistic comparisons. Some of the increase may be attributed to improved reporting mechanisms, including online complaint portals, and greater public awareness. However, urban analysts point to Bengaluru’s rapid expansion as a significant factor. The city continues to attract migrants from across India, leading to strained infrastructure, congested public spaces, and an anonymity that correlates with higher crime rates.

Bengaluru is no longer the relatively quiet administrative city it once was. The combination of economic opportunity, urban sprawl, and stretched policing resources has contributed to the rising incidence of violent offences.

Southern metros present a contrast

Neighbouring southern metros show a different trend. Chennai has reduced its violent crime tally by about one-third over three years, and Hyderabad has seen only a modest increase, remaining far below Bengaluru’s numbers. Kolkata continues to be among the safer large cities, reporting under a thousand violent crime cases in 2023.

At the national level, violent crime has largely plateaued, with more than 4.1 lakh cases recorded in 2021, rising to 4.3 lakh in 2022, and remaining steady at 4.3 lakh in 2023. Bengaluru’s sharp rise stands out against this backdrop of relative stability.

Public safety implications

For residents, the statistics mirror frequent media reports of street crimes such as chain-snatching, robberies, and sexual assaults. Police officials argue that higher reporting is a positive indicator of public awareness and trust in law enforcement. Nonetheless, urban planners emphasise the need for improved public safety infrastructure, including better street lighting, enhanced CCTV coverage, increased patrolling, and strengthened community policing initiatives.

Conclusion

Bengaluru’s rise as the third most violent metro reflects the growing pains of a rapidly urbanising city. While improved reporting contributes to higher numbers, structural and societal factors demand urgent attention. Addressing these gaps is critical to ensure that Bengaluru remains safe for its residents amid continuing growth.