HYDERABAD: Telangana has recorded the highest number of dowry-related murders among all southern states in 2023, according to the latest data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The state reported 36 such cases, fewer than West Bengal (220) and Odisha (224), but higher than Andhra Pradesh (26), Karnataka (12), Maharashtra (5) and Tamil Nadu (1).

Hyderabad leads among metros

Among India's metropolitan cities, Hyderabad topped the list, accounting for three of the seven dowry-related murders reported nationwide in 2023.

The country witnessed a 14% increase in dowry-related cases, with more than 15,000 complaints and 6,100 deaths, including suicides. Telangana reported 145 dowry deaths, but only four cases were registered under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961-pointing to a sharp gap between the number of offences and prosecutions.

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While the number of dowry murders in Telangana fell slightly from 44 in 2022 to 36 in 2023, the figures remain higher than in any other southern state.

Recent cases highlight continuing violence

In August 2023, a 21-year-old woman in Hanamkonda was allegedly smothered to death by her husband, Ganesh, after she refused to meet dowry demands. He reportedly locked the house and fled. In another incident, a 33-year-old woman in Kothagudem died after alleged starvation, confinement and physical abuse by her husband and in-laws.

Officials link rise to improved reporting

Senior officials attributed the state's high figures to improved reporting mechanisms rather than an actual increase in crime. "These figures reflect not just the number of crimes committed but also the population size and ease of reporting. Telangana police have made it simpler for women to register complaints," said an officer from the Women's Safety Wing.