How To Fix R9065 - Cannot delete; column is still being referenced

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: R9 - Business Explorer

• Message number: 065

• Message text: Cannot delete; column is still being referenced

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message R9065 - Cannot delete; column is still being referenced ?

  The SAP error message R9065, "Cannot delete; column is still being referenced," typically occurs when you attempt to delete a column from a database table or a data structure that is still being referenced by other objects, such as views, indexes, or foreign key relationships. This is a safeguard to prevent data integrity issues.
  Cause:
  
  References in Views: The column you are trying to delete is part of a view definition.
  Foreign Key Constraints: The column may be involved in foreign key relationships with other tables.
  Indexes: The column might be part of an index that is still in use.
  Program Code: There may be ABAP programs or function modules that reference the column.
  Data Dictionary Objects: Other data dictionary objects may depend on the column.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to identify and remove the references to the column before you can delete it. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Check for Views: 
  
  Use transaction SE11 (Data Dictionary) to check if the column is part of any views. If it is, you will need to modify or delete those views first.
  
  
  
  Check Foreign Key Relationships:
  
  In SE11, check if the column is part of any foreign key relationships. If it is, you will need to remove or modify those relationships.
  
  
  
  Check Indexes:
  
  Look for any indexes that include the column. You can do this in SE11 or SE14 (Database Utility). If an index exists, you will need to drop or modify it.
  
  
  
  Review ABAP Code:
  
  Search for any ABAP programs, function modules, or classes that reference the column. You can use transaction SE80 or the code inspector to find references.
  
  
  
  Check Data Dictionary Objects:
  
  Ensure that no other data dictionary objects (like search helps, lock objects, etc.) are referencing the column.
  
  
  
  Delete References: 
  
  Once you have identified all references, you can proceed to delete or modify them as necessary.
  
  
  
  Retry Deletion: 
  
  After all references have been removed, you can attempt to delete the column again.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE14 (Database Utility), SE80 (Object Navigator).
  Documentation: SAP Help Portal and SAP Notes may provide additional insights or specific instructions related to your version of SAP.
  Backup: Always ensure you have a backup of your data and objects before making structural changes to the database.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the R9065 error and successfully delete the column.