Kolkata/IBNS: Kolkata has once again ranked the top in the list of Indian cities with the least number of cognisable offences, a report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) said.

The NCRB data is based on the cases reported and shared by the respective state governments to the Centre.

As per the new data, Kolkata reported 86.5 cognisable offences per lakh population.

The eastern Indian city is followed by Pune (280.7) and Hyderabad (299.2) and Chennai (450.1).

This is the third consecutive year where Kolkata has emerged as the safest city in the country.

Meanwhile, Kolkata, which is the capital of West Bengal, has improved its own number reported in 2021 when 103.5 cognisable offences were reported per lakh population.

Commenting on the report, West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja told ANI, "Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is strict about ensuring women security...

"Crimes should not happen in the first place but if it happens, there should be trust in the administration that justice will be delivered."

Panja said nine out of 83 police stations which fall under the umbrella of Kolkata Police are dedicated for women.