Telangana High Court Questions Large-Scale Demolition Efforts

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The Telangana High Court has criticized the state government for its approach to demolishing buildings across Hyderabad, particularly those situated within the Full Tank Level (FTL) limits of Durgam Cheruvu. Justice B. Vijay Singh Reddy, who was reviewing a series of petitions challenging demolition notices, expressed concern over the government’s actions.

During the proceedings, Justice Reddy questioned why the government had taken no action over the past 10 to 20 years regarding alleged illegal constructions. He also queried why no measures had been taken against GHMC officials who had approved these constructions in FTL and buffer zones. The court suggested that the government should first address the accountability of the officials who granted the permits and consider legal actions, including the possibility of prosecuting retired government officials.

The petitions were filed by residents who received demolition notices on August 3, arguing that their buildings had been constructed with prior permission from GHMC and the former HUD. Justice Reddy expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s selective demolition strategy, questioning why only certain structures were targeted while numerous unauthorized constructions in Hyderabad remained unaddressed.

The court also inquired about the inclusion of Raheja Towers, also known as In orbit Mall, in the demolition list despite its location within the FTL of Durgam Cheruvu. In response, Special Government Pleader S. Rahul Reddy stated that the government was conducting a phased demolition of unauthorized constructions and requested that the court consolidate this matter with an ongoing appeal concerning Durgam Cheruvu’s preservation to avoid conflicting orders.

The judge agreed to this request and directed that the petitions be heard alongside the appeal in front of the division bench dealing with the preservation case.