The Telangana Police have outlined comprehensive measures to address women's safety concerns, covering harassment hotspots, cyber crimes, and workplace issues. In response to queries from readers, the Women Safety Wing (WSW) detailed steps including deployment of SHE Teams, establishment of Bharosa Centres, and the launch of the T-SAFE app.
Harassment Hotspots and Patrols
Police have identified vulnerable public places such as bus stops, metro stations, parks, marketplaces, isolated stretches, malls, and crowded areas as potential harassment hotspots. To enhance safety, SHE Teams are regularly deployed in plain clothes, and patrolling has been strengthened. Decoy operations and surprise checks are conducted to catch offenders involved in eve-teasing, catcalling, stalking, groping, flashing, voyeurism, and obscene comments. Awareness programmes are also held, encouraging women to report incidents for immediate counselling and legal action.
Cyber Crimes and Investigations
Cyber offences, including misuse of AI, deepfakes, cyberstalking, revenge posting, and anonymous trolling, pose significant challenges due to technological advancements. Despite low conviction rates, the Telangana Police have established a cyber module and SHE Cyber Cell with trained teams to identify offenders and support victims. The Cyber Security Bureau handles complex cyber frauds and advanced investigations, using digital forensics and coordination with social media platforms.
Rape and POCSO Cases
Women- and child-related offences are treated with utmost seriousness. Increased reporting reflects greater awareness. Bharosa Centres function as integrated one-stop crisis centres, providing victim support, counselling, and rehabilitation. Over 17,000 rape and POCSO cases have been handled through these centres. The victim-centric approach aims to make survivors feel safe throughout the process.
Emergency Response Times
The integrated emergency response mechanism ensures immediate assistance via Dial 100/112, women safety helplines, and digital platforms. Command and Control Centres monitor calls and alert the nearest patrol vehicle through GPS-enabled systems. In urban areas, police typically reach within 7–9 minutes, and in rural areas within 15 minutes.
Workplace Harassment
If the Internal Committee under the POSH Act is inactive or biased, victims can approach the Sahas Help Desk under the WSW. The desk provides guidance on complaint filing, documentation, and legal remedies. Awareness programmes are conducted in educational institutions, workplaces, IT companies, industries, and public organisations.
Tracking Repeat Offenders
Offender databases and digital records are maintained to monitor habitual offenders. SHE Teams counsel first-time offenders and initiate stricter legal action for repeat offenders. Information is shared among units for coordinated monitoring and preventive action.
Cab Aggregators and App-Based Transport
The Safe Mobility initiative addresses harassment during travel. Complaints about cab drivers misbehaving or misusing phone numbers can be reported via 100/112. The WSW communicates concerns to cab aggregators. The T-SAFE app tracks journeys until passengers reach their destination safely.
Online Safety for Children
Parents are advised to educate children about safe internet usage, privacy settings, and responsible social media behaviour. Children should not share personal information, photographs, passwords, or live locations with strangers. Objectionable content or cyber harassment should be reported to cybercrime authorities.
Anonymous Trolling
Specialised cyber units investigate anonymous trolling using digital forensics and cyber intelligence tools. Offenders using fake profiles, VPNs, or anonymous platforms are traced through technical methods, and legal action is initiated.
LGBTQIA+ Complaints
Common issues reported include emotional abuse, intimidation, social exclusion, domestic violence, workplace discrimination, blackmail, threats, extortion, and misuse of personal photographs. Complaints are handled sensitively and confidentially, with legal action where cognisable offences are involved. Counselling and psychological support are extended.
Why Women Hesitate to Report Workplace Harassment
- Fear of social stigma or professional retaliation
- Concern over loss of employment or career growth impact
- Lack of awareness about legal rights and complaint mechanisms
- Emotional stress and fear of not being believed
- Inability to distinguish work pressures from genuine harassment
- Pressure from colleagues or management to remain silent
Quote: We ensure complete confidentiality, victim-sensitive handling, and legal assistance while dealing with complaints related to workplace harassment.
How to Approach the Women Safety Wing
- Helpline: 100/112
- SHE Cyber Cell: 87126 56858, 87126 56856
- Social media handles
