Land fraud: Court asks Banjara Hills Police to book NIMS Dy MS Dr Bhaskar, others

Hyderabad: A city court on Monday ordered the Banjara Hills Police to register a criminal case and investigate a land fraud complaint involving a senior official of NIMS Hospital and the former president of a prominent cooperative housing society.

The complaint, filed by a Rajahmundry-based doctor, alleges he was duped into paying Rs 2.7 crore for a plot that was later declared illegal.

Complaint ignored despite Prima Facie evidence

Dr Vietla Sree Ramulu, a practicing doctor from Rajahmundry, initially approached Banjara Hills Police on April 22, 2025, accusing Dr N Lakshmi Bhaskar (Deputy Superintendent, NIMS Hospital) and G. Siddaiah (former president, Sri Venkateswara Co-operative House Building Society) of cheating, breach of trust, and criminal conspiracy.

Despite presenting evidence and WhatsApp chats indicating cognizable offences, police did not register an FIR. A subsequent representation to the City Police Commissioner also went unanswered, prompting the complainant to approach the court under Section 175(3) of the BNSS, 2023.

Land deal based on misrepresentation and false promises

The complainant claimed he was misled into purchasing a housing plot at MLA Colony in Banjara Hills by Dr Bhaskar and Siddaiah, who assured him that the land belonged to the Society and was available at a discounted rate due to a distressed sale.

He was made to believe that the market rate was Rs 5 crore, but he could purchase it for Rs 2.7 crore. Payments were made through various means, including cash, bank transfers, and a Demand Draft. The land was registered in his name in July 2020.

Plot registration cancelled, enquiry reveals irregularities

In 2021, the Cooperative Registrar initiated an enquiry into the land transaction. The sale deed was cancelled in August 2022 after officials found the land to be ineligible for sale.

A report submitted by the Enquiry Officer recommended criminal proceedings against Mr. Siddaiah and Society members for executing illegal transactions involving excess land earmarked for public amenities.

Accused allegedly issued threats, boasted political influence

The doctor alleged that when he demanded a refund, the accused initially promised repayment but later issued threats. Dr Bhaskar allegedly warned him against approaching police, claiming political protection and the ability to falsely implicate him in criminal cases.

Fearing for his safety, the complainant remained silent initially but decided to act after receiving public support and learning about similar complaints against the accused.

FIR registered following court direction

Taking note of the complaint and the police’s inaction, the III Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate directed Banjara Hills Police to file an FIR under multiple sections of the BNSS 2023, including cheating, conspiracy, and criminal intimidation.

Petitioner seeks justice, legal accountability

The petitioner has requested the court to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted and a chargesheet is filed against the accused to prevent further victimization and uphold the rule of law. Further developments in the case are awaited.