Top 10 Indian states with highest crime rate: Delhi ranks 5th, see which states outranks the national capital

Factors such as poverty, unemployment, lack of education, social unrest, and even political instability often play a role in impacting crime rates. Understanding which states have higher crime rates helps people stay aware and allows authorities to better focus their efforts on law enforcement and public safety.

In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 Indian states with the highest crime rates, based on the number of reported crimes per capita. From theft and robbery to violent offenses and crimes against women, the range is wide and deeply concerning.

Top 10 Indian states with highest crime rates

Uttar Pradesh
Crime Rate: 7.4 per capita

Uttar Pradesh tops the list with the highest number of reported crimes in the country. A per capita rate of 7.4 reflects the ongoing struggle to maintain order in a densely populated state. Incidents ranging from theft and assault to communal violence continue to pose serious law and order challenges.

Arunachal Pradesh
Crime Rate: 5.8 per capita

Despite being one of the least populated states, Arunachal Pradesh reports the second-highest crime rate per capita. Security restrictions like limited night movement in certain areas reveal the underlying safety issues, compounded by remote locations and tough terrain that hinder policing efforts.

Jharkhand
Crime Rate: 5.3 per capita

Jharkhand remains burdened by deep-rooted issues like Naxalite influence, illegal mining operations, and poor infrastructure in rural zones. A per capita crime rate of 5.3 indicates not only high crime levels but also potential underreporting and enforcement gaps.

Meghalaya
Crime Rate: 5.1 per capita

Known for its scenic beauty, Meghalaya struggles with rising crime, particularly in tribal belts. The per capita figures are troubling, especially considering the state’s small population, pointing to a spike in localised law and order concerns.

Delhi
Crime Rate: 5.0 per capita

The national capital continues to face a high crime burden, with 5.0 incidents per person reported. Despite being a hub for governance and law enforcement, Delhi sees persistent issues such as gender violence, theft, and street-level crimes that affect residents and visitors alike.

Assam
Crime Rate: 4.4 per capita

Assam’s crime landscape is shaped by its history of political unrest and ethnic conflicts. The crime rate reflects incidents ranging from localized disputes to more serious insurgency-linked violence in sensitive border districts.

Chhattisgarh
Crime Rate: 4.0 per capita

In Chhattisgarh, the ongoing Maoist insurgency and lack of access to remote tribal regions continue to fuel the crime rate. Long-standing security challenges and slow judicial response have left many vulnerable to both violence and injustice.

Haryana and Odisha
Crime Rate: 3.8 per capita

Haryana and Odisha both report identical crime rates but face different issues. Haryana has seen a surge in urban crimes, including gang activity and violence against women, while Odisha grapples with rural offenses and policing gaps in its interior regions.

Andhra Pradesh
Crime Rate: 3.6 per capita

While Andhra Pradesh boasts relatively strong governance structures, crime remains a concern. The state has recorded an uptick in digital scams, financial fraud, and domestic violence—highlighting the evolving nature of crime in a modernising society.