Telangana Leads in Stalking Cases: A Troubling Trend or Better Reporting?

Women Safety

Posted by AI on 2025-10-01 12:48:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 22:40:38

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Telangana Leads in Stalking Cases: A Troubling Trend or Better Reporting?

In a concerning revelation, Telangana has emerged as the state with the highest stalking crime rate in India, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2023 data. With 9.9 stalking cases per lakh population, Telangana's rate is more than double that of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, which follow in second and third place, respectively. This statistic raises questions about the factors contributing to this alarming trend and the effectiveness of current measures to address it.

The data reveals that Telangana reported 1,884 stalking cases, second only to Maharashtra's 2,689 cases. Hyderabad, a bustling metropolis, recorded a staggering 416 stalking incidents, translating to a rate of 11.1 per lakh population, the highest among major cities. However, police officials urge caution in interpreting these numbers. They attribute the high rate to improved reporting mechanisms and proactive initiatives rather than a sudden surge in stalking incidents.

Senior police officers from the Women's Safety Wing and the IPS believe that Telangana's high case numbers result from better awareness and reporting systems. They highlight the state's interventions, such as the Safe Mobility initiative and SHE Teams, which facilitate easier reporting of crimes like groping, flashing, and eve-teasing. These officials emphasize that the increased reporting is a positive sign, indicating that victims feel empowered to come forward.

Despite the optimistic interpretation, the stark reality of Telangana's stalking statistics demands attention. As the state grapples with this issue, the effectiveness of its reporting mechanisms and interventions will be closely scrutinized. The challenge lies in ensuring that the reported cases lead to justice and deterrence, fostering a safer environment for all, especially women.