Decline in rape conviction cases: Govt

The conviction rate of rape cases in the country over the years show a declining trend, the government said on Wednesday.

However, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for the period 2009-11 showed increasing number of rape cases in the country.

"As per information by the NCRB, a total number of 21,397, 22,172 and 24,206 cases of rape were reported in the country during 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively, thereby showing a rising trend," Minister of State for Home RPN Singh told Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

The minister said the conviction rate of rape cases over the years indicate a declining trend.

The conviction rates were 44.3% in 1973, 37.7% in 1983, 26.9% in 2009, 26.6% in 2010 and 26.4% in 2011.

"The President on February 3, 2012, has promulgated Criminal Law (amendment) Ordinance 2012 on crimes against women which enumerated all types of sexual crimes against women.

"It also proposes enhanced punishment for other crimes of sexual harassment against women. In addition, amendments are made to CrPC and Indian Evidence Act to protect the rights of victims of sexual assault," the minister said.