Telangana Human Rights Panel Seeks DGP Report in Swapna Murder Case

The murder of Chevella-based advocate G. Swapna Kumari has triggered serious concern in Telangana, with the Telangana State Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) seeking a comprehensive report from the Director General of Police over allegations of police negligence. The Commission took cognisance after complaints alleged that authorities failed to act despite prior warnings about threats to the lawyer’s life. The brutal killing occurred on February 4 under Chevella jurisdiction and is linked to a long-running ancestral land dispute in Moinabad, Ranga Reddy district.

Swapna Kumari, a practicing lawyer at the Chevella court, was allegedly murdered by her elder brother along with his associates. Police investigations indicate that the dispute involved inherited property rights, a common trigger for family conflicts in rapidly urbanising areas. Four accused have been arrested so far. The case drew widespread attention after 163 advocates approached the Human Rights Commission alleging serious lapses by local police.

According to the complaint examined by the Commission under Chairman Dr. Justice Shameem Akhtar , the victim had repeatedly informed police that her life was in danger and had even identified her brother as a potential threat. Petitioners argued that failure to provide protection despite such warnings amounts to grave dereliction of duty . Reports also suggest she had previously lodged complaints after suspected attempts on her life, including incidents believed to have been staged as road accidents linked to the property dispute.

Police stated that the attack appeared premeditated. Swapna had gone with her mother to survey their inherited land when the accused allegedly ambushed them. The dispute centred on four acres in Survey No. 339 of Kethireddypally village . During the assault, her mother Venkataamma tried to intervene, but the assailants inflicted severe injuries on Swapna, who died on the spot due to excessive bleeding. Investigators believe the accused tracked her movements and chose the location deliberately to execute the attack.

The legal fraternity has demanded an independent inquiry into the circumstances leading to the murder and action against officials found responsible for negligence. Lawyers have also sought protection for eyewitnesses, interim compensation for the victim’s mother, and speedy filing of the charge sheet. The Commission has adjourned the next hearing to March 6, 2026, and further action is expected based on the DGP’s report.

The incident has sparked statewide debate over lawyer safety , the adequacy of police response to threat complaints, and the rising number of violent conflicts linked to land disputes. Legal associations warn that failure to act on credible threats undermines confidence in law enforcement and places legal professionals at heightened risk, particularly when handling sensitive property and inheritance matters.