The Telangana High Court has strongly criticized HYDRA Chief AV Ranganathan and the Ameenpur Mandal Tahsildar for demolishing structures in Ameenpur on a Sunday, despite a court order against it. The court questioned the officials about the extent of the lake, Full Tank Levels (FTLs), and the consequences of demolition. The HYDRA chief was even asked if he would lend equipment to raze iconic structures like Charminar or the High Court if ordered to do so.
The court’s ire was sparked by the demolition of residential complexes in Ameenpur, including a hospital, after only a day’s notice. The petitioners, including Dr. Md Rafi, claimed they had necessary permissions from the Gram Panchayat and alleged that HYDRA and revenue officials ignored a prior court order dated September 5. Justice Lakshman emphasized that HYDRA’s role is to protect government assets and remove unauthorized encroachments, not carry out “ad hoc” demolitions.
[news_related_post]The matter has been adjourned until further hearing, with the court warning HYDRA officials to abide by the law or face action. This is not the first time HYDRA has faced criticism; the agency has been challenged over its demolition orders, with petitioners arguing that they were not granted a hearing before the demolitions.
