Bengaluru: Molestation cases in Bengaluru have more than doubled over the past four years, data reveals, with a significant increase reported each year.

In 2021, 571 cases were recorded, while the number rose to 1,250 by 2024, according to Kashmir Media Service. The figures for 2022 and 2023 were 731 and 1,139, respectively. Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda attributed the rising numbers to improved reporting mechanisms, increased camera coverage, and initiatives like safety islands and enhanced patrolling.

Dayananda emphasized the role of awareness campaigns and social media engagement in encouraging survivors to report incidents. He highlighted that each police station has a dedicated social media team to monitor and respond to complaints, though formal channels remain crucial for effective investigation.

Dayananda explained that formal complaints allow faster evidence collection and arrests. “It saves time and aids investigators. We’re not discouraging online posts, but formal complaints should be prioritized,” he stated.

Despite the increase in reported cases, police officials believe many incidents remain unreported due to survivors’ fear of the police or concerns about information leaks. Dayananda acknowledged the lengthy legal processes but stressed the importance of evidence and survivor statements in prosecuting cases.

Addressing safety concerns, Dayananda assured that police officers are sensitized to the seriousness of these cases and emphasized confidentiality in handling reports to encourage more survivors to come forward.