Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Telangana has registered more than 50,000 cases under Section 498 A of the Indian Penal Code and over 600 cases under Section 304 B between January 2020 and July 2025, reflecting ongoing challenges in tackling crimes against women. The data, released by the Telangana Police Women’s Wing in response to an RTI application filed by Youth for Anti-Corruption founder Rajendra Palnati, shows that a large share of these cases continues to remain unresolved, indicating delays in investigation and trial processes.

According to the figures, Section 498 A—dealing with harassment and cruelty by relatives over dowry-related issues—accounts for the highest number of cases reported during the five-year period. However, more than half of these cases are still pending trial, raising concerns over the pace of judicial proceedings. Similarly, Section 304 B, which pertains to dowry-related deaths, has recorded over 600 cases, with the majority yet to be fully processed by law enforcement agencies.

Officials have clarified that the police do not maintain separate data for divorce-related cases, despite continuous appeals from civil society groups. Experts warn that the backlog, both in cases under investigation and those pending trial, could compromise timely justice for victims. They stress the need for stronger monitoring systems, faster legal procedures, and institutional reforms to reduce pendency and ensure effective protection for women.

Activists and women’s rights organisations have urged the state government to address systemic delays, improve enforcement mechanisms, and strengthen support systems for victims of domestic violence and dowry harassment. They argue that the latest data not only reflects the scale of crimes reported but also highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response to improve safety and justice delivery for women in Telangana.