Protests Erupt as Telangana Government Plans IT Park on Ecologically Sensitive Site Near University of Hyderabad
Hyderabad, April 5 — The Cyberabad Police has imposed restrictions on public access to a 400-acre land parcel in Kancha Gachibowli, located adjacent to the University of Hyderabad (UoH), citing law and order concerns and the need to maintain public tranquility. The move comes amid escalating tensions over the Telangana government’s plans to auction the land for urban infrastructure development and the construction of an IT park.Police Order Cites Public Safety and Legal Proceedings
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Madhapur Zone) Vineeth G issued a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), restricting entry into the disputed area to only those with legitimate work or duties. The restrictions are effective from 6 a.m. on April 5 and will remain in place until April 16.The order aims to prevent potential threats to human life, disturbances to public peace, and any obstruction of lawful duties. It also aligns with recent directives from the Supreme Court and the Central Empowered Committee, given the ongoing litigation in both the Telangana High Court and the apex court.
Supreme Court Intervenes, Questions Urgency Behind Land Clearance
The Supreme Court, in a recent hearing, questioned the Telangana government’s “compelling urgency” to clear tree cover from the ecologically sensitive land. The court issued a stay on further activity and instructed the Central Empowered Committee to inspect the site and submit a report by April 16.On Thursday, the High Court scheduled its next hearing for April 7, while the Supreme Court ordered that no further development be carried out until its next session.
Government Responds, Forms Committee to Address Concerns
In response to the Supreme Court's directives, the Telangana government announced the formation of a ministerial committee to hold discussions with the UoH executive committee, civil society organizations, student bodies, and other stakeholders.Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu issued a joint statement affirming the government’s commitment to complying with the court’s orders. They assured that all required information would be submitted within the given timeframe and emphasized that police forces have been instructed to avoid harsh measures against students.
Students Protest, Demand FIR Withdrawals and Land Ownership Assertion
On Friday evening, the University of Hyderabad Students’ Union (UoHSU) organized a rally on campus demanding the removal of police camps and the withdrawal of FIRs against students, civil society members, and activists. The student body also urged the university administration to formally assert ownership of the disputed land by filing a petition in the High Court.Clashes Reported During Land Clearing Operations
According to police, tensions flared on March 30 when the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) began development work based on a government order. A group, including UoH students, reportedly attempted to halt operations and allegedly attacked officials and workers with sticks and stones.Police detained 53 individuals, who were later released on personal bonds. A case was filed at the Gachibowli Police Station on charges including unlawful assembly, rioting, and assault on public servants. Authorities confirmed the arrest of two individuals who are no longer enrolled at the university.
Land Ownership Dispute at the Core of the Controversy
The Telangana government maintains that the 400-acre Kancha Gachibowli land belongs to the state and has justified its plans for infrastructure development. However, the area’s ecological sensitivity and proximity to an educational institution have fueled widespread opposition and legal challenges.As the matter continues to unfold in the courts and on the ground, all eyes remain on the upcoming hearings and the findings of the Central Empowered Committee.
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