Kerala Forms Special Task Force to Speed Up Probe into Crimes Against Women

The Kerala government has announced the formation of a Special Task Force (STF) to ensure the speedy investigation of dowry harassment and domestic violence cases , amid growing concerns over crimes against women and delays in the justice process.

The decision was taken after Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala reviewed recommendations submitted by the Department of Women and Child Development and the State Police Chief , officials said on Wednesday. The initiative is aimed at strengthening coordination among government agencies, ensuring prompt action on complaints, and delivering timely justice to victims.

The newly constituted Special Task Force will be headed by the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Intelligence . It will function as a coordinated mechanism to monitor investigations, improve inter-departmental cooperation, and expedite the handling of cases related to dowry harassment and domestic violence .

According to officials, the task force will comprise representatives from the District Vigilance Committee , District Women Cell , Sakhi One Stop Centre , Legal Services Authority , the district office of the Department of Women and Child Development , along with one woman representative . The multi-agency structure is expected to facilitate quicker intervention, victim support, and legal assistance.

The move comes against the backdrop of persistent concerns over dowry-related abuse and domestic violence in Kerala and across India. While legal provisions such as the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 , and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other protective laws provide safeguards for women, activists have repeatedly called for faster investigations, better coordination among authorities, and stronger support systems for survivors.