Crimes against and victimization of women have different features and causal factors, depending on the status of women in society. In India, despite constitutional safeguards to protect the rights of women, these rights continue to be violated and victimization is on the rise. The National Commission for Women, established by the Indian government, and State Commissions for Women are attempting to identify major hindrances to the progress of women. Although much of the victimization of women is linked to their sex, such as female infanticide, rape, dowry killings, molestation, sexual harassment, and forced prostitution, the eradication of these crimes against women requires a multifaceted approach to dealing with social inequities and the social status of women. In addition, radical reforms in Indian laws and better education of women and perpetrators of crimes against women are needed. Trends in crimes against women in India and laws designed to protect women are noted, and factors that contribute to the criminal victimization of women are listed. 18 references and 1 table