National Annual Report and Index on Women’s Safety 2025
The National Annual Report and Index on Women’s Safety (NARI) 2025 presents a detailed picture of urban women’s safety across India. Based on a survey of 12,770 women from 31 cities, the report reveals a national safety score of 65%. Despite government efforts, 40% of women still feel unsafe in their cities. The report marks key issues such as harassment, trust in redressal systems, and variations in safety by age, location, and time.
City Rankings
Cities like Kohima, Visakhapatnam, and Bhubaneswar rank highest due to better gender equity, policing, and infrastructure. In contrast, Patna, Jaipur, and Delhi score lowest, reflecting weak institutional support and entrenched patriarchal norms. These disparities show how governance and local culture impact women’s sense of security.
Harassment Patterns and Vulnerable Groups
Seven per cent of women reported public harassment in 2024, but this rises to 14% among women under 24. Young women, especially students and professionals, face more risks in educational and recreational spaces. Verbal harassment is the most common form, accounting for 58% of cases, followed by physical, psychological, economic, and sexual harassment.
Harassment Hotspots and Timing
Neighbourhoods (38%) and public transport (29%) are the main sites of harassment. Safety perceptions drop sharply after dark, with poor street lighting and unreliable transport increasing vulnerability. While 86% feel safe in educational institutions during the day, confidence falls at night or off-campus.
Workplace Safety and Awareness
Though 91% of women describe their workplaces as safe, awareness of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) policy is low. Over half (53%) do not know if their organisation has implemented POSH. Among those aware, most find it effective, denoting that awareness is crucial alongside legal provisions.
Trust in Redressal Mechanisms
Confidence in authorities is weak. Only one in three harassment victims files formal complaints. Of those complaints, only 22% are registered, and 16% see action. Seventy-five per cent of women doubt the effectiveness of police and legal agencies. This cycle of silence perpetuates insecurity and discourages reporting.
Broader Dimensions of Safety
Women’s safety extends beyond physical protection. Psychological, financial, and digital security also influence access to opportunities and dignity. The report frames safety as a developmental issue, not just a law-and-order problem. Enhancing women’s safety requires multi-dimensional strategies including urban planning, social attitudes, and institutional reforms.
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