"The total number of rape cases registered between April 2012 and March 31, 2013 was 179, out of which 118 cases (over 65 per cent) involved victims below the age of 18," Home Minister Roshan Warjri said.
East Khasi Hills district recorded the highest number of rapes with 62 cases, followed by Ri-Bhoi district (32), West Khasi Hills (22), East Jaintia Hills (17), West Jaintia Hills (16), South West Khasi Hills and South Garo Hills (both eight) and West Garo Hills (six).
She said altogether 91 cases of molestation were reported in the state during April 2012-March 2013 period. There were also other crimes against women like trafficking, cruelty by husband and dowry.
Replying to a cut motion moved by Opposition legislator Ardent Basaiawmoit, Warjri admitted that crimes against women have become a "matter of serious concern" and the state government has taken steps to combat the evil.
On militancy, the home minister said 165 militancy related incidents were reported in the state during the period and activities of the proscribed Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) in the Garo Hills region continued to be a cause of concern for the government.