A Supreme Court bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and A.G. Masih delivered sharp remarks regarding the rapid clearing of approximately 100 acres of forest land in Kancha Gachibowli, near the Hyderabad Central University campus. The bench criticized the action, which was allegedly carried out without proper authorization.
Notably, the justices also expressed concern for the displaced wildlife, referencing video footage showing herbivorous animals fleeing the area and being attacked by stray dogs. The court questioned the state’s reported move to “self-exempt” certain species from protection lists, demanding immediate intervention from the state’s wildlife warden to ensure the safety of affected animals, especially those belonging to protected species.
“Our concern is the presence of bulldozers and the destruction of 100 acres of forest,” the bench observed. “If there were plans for development, you should have obtained the necessary permissions.” said the court.
Supreme Court lambasts Telangana Government Officials
The court issued a stern warning to senior state officials, including the Chief Secretary, threatening possible imprisonment unless a concrete plan is presented to restore the deforested land.
Pointing towards the state government officials the court stated, “If you want to protect your Chief Secretary, bring us a restoration plan for those 100 acres,” Justice Gavai stated forcefully. “Otherwise, we don’t know how many of your officers might end up in temporary jail.”
The court reiterated its April 3 directive halting all activity on the disputed land, except for essential efforts to protect remaining trees. It also condemned the urgency with which the clearance occurred—reportedly over just three days, including holidays—raising questions about the motive behind such haste.
ALSO READ: Justice BR Gavai Recommended as Next Chief Justice of India, To Take Oath on May 14
Appearing for the Telangana government, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi acknowledged “some errors” may have occurred but maintained that the state’s actions were taken in “good faith.” The court, however, remained focused on environmental impact and the restoration of the forest.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy centers around the Telangana government’s plans to redevelop approximately 400 acres near Hyderabad Central University, triggering widespread protests from students and environmental groups. Activists argue the bulldozing violates Supreme Court orders and poses a serious threat to local biodiversity.
The Vata Foundation, an NGO, has petitioned for the area to be declared a ‘deemed forest’ or even a ‘national park’ under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, citing the presence of various animal and bird species.
While the state has clarified that university land has not been encroached upon, it has accused opposition parties like the BRS and BJP of politicizing the issue by spreading misinformation.
The case is scheduled for its next hearing on May 15.
