‘How can cops determine land ownership?’ Telangana HC seeks state’s explanation in Shamirpet dispute
The court issued notices to senior officials after taking serious note of allegations that the Shamirpet police facilitated interference in private property.
By Newsmeter Network
Hyderabad: Telangana High Court has asked the state government to clarify how police officers could assume the authority to determine land ownership in a purely civil dispute.
The court issued notices to senior officials after taking serious note of allegations that the Shamirpet police facilitated interference in private property.
Petitioner alleges police-backed encroachment
Anil Kumar, a resident of Thumkunta in Shamirpet mandal, approached the High Court alleging that local police officers had overstepped their mandate.
According to him, he legally purchased a 133-square-yard plot in March 2018, constructed a boundary wall, and has since been paying electricity and property taxes, evidence of continuous possession.
Despite this, one Venkata Reddy, a local resident, allegedly forced the watchman out and laid claim to the same land, citing a 2023 notary agreement. The petitioner contended that such an act became possible only because of undue interference and support from the Shamirpet SHO and SI.
‘Where do police get power to decide title?’
Justice N Sravan Kumar, while hearing the matter, questioned how the police could examine documents and conclude ownership rights when such determinations fall strictly within the purview of civil courts. The judge expressed displeasure at the manner in which the police appeared to have intervened.
Notices to Government and Police Officers
The court directed the Principal Secretary (Home), Hyderabad Police Commissioner, Shamirpet SHO, the concerned SI, and claimant M Venkata Reddy to file counter-affidavits addressing the allegations and the legal basis for police involvement in the dispute. The matter has been posted for further hearing on December 19.
