`How permissions were granted’? Telangana HC orders comprehensive investigation into Sunnam Cheruvu land dispute

Hyderabad: Telangana High Court has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the land disputes surrounding Sunnam Cheruvu at Allapur in Serilingampally Mandal of Rangareddy district.

The court instructed the specially appointed inquiry officer to conduct a detailed investigation and submit a report, making it clear that the probe must be free from the influence of HYDRAA or any other senior officials.

Special officer appointed

In compliance with earlier court directions, the State Chief Secretary has appointed a Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO)-rank official as a Special Officer to inquire into the matter.

The court emphasized that the officer must carry out an impartial investigation into the ownership, boundaries, and status of lands linked to Sunnam Cheruvu.

Petitioners to be heard before the survey

The High Court specifically directed that the petitioners must be consulted before the commencement of any land survey. The Special Officer was asked to ensure transparency and fairness during the inquiry process.

Departments directed to extend cooperation

To facilitate the investigation, the court ordered officials from the Irrigation, Survey and Land Records, and Revenue departments of Rangareddy and Medak-Malkajgiri districts to extend full cooperation to the Special Officer. Similar instructions were issued to the GHMC Deputy Commissioner.

Electricity, borewells to be disconnected

During the hearing, the court took serious note of allegations regarding the extraction and transportation of polluted water from the lake through borewells. The judge questioned how permissions were granted for borewells, drainage, and electricity connections in prohibited zones.

The Electricity Department was directed to immediately disconnect the power supply to the borewells located in the restricted area to prevent further extraction of contaminated water.

Arguments by both sides

Counsel for the petitioners alleged that HYDRAA was continuing excavation works near the lake without issuing notices or finalizing demarcation, while simultaneously allowing polluted water to be transported by tankers for drinking purposes.

On the other hand, Additional Advocate General Imran Khan, appearing for HYDRAA, dismissed the allegations as baseless. He argued that ownership and boundary disputes existed over the lands claimed by the petitioners and asserted that even villas constructed within the Full Tank Level (FTL) and buffer zones would be demolished if found illegal.

The objective, he said, was to restore the lake to its natural state.

Court’s observations and directions

After hearing both sides, Justice Anil Kumar Jukanti questioned officials on how borewell permissions were granted in the FTL and buffer zones.

The court directed the Special Officer to conduct a full survey and submit a detailed report, including particulars of all properties situated within the FTL and buffer zones, along with house numbers.

The court warned that if HYDRAA was found to have committed any lapses, strict action would be initiated.

Background of the case

The case arises from a petition filed by the SIET Maruti Hills Colony Welfare Association and six others, alleging that HYDRAA carried out demolitions in the name of removing illegal structures without issuing notices or determining the FTL.

HYDRAA, in turn, filed an interlocutory application seeking permission to take up restoration works at Sunnam Cheruvu and to seek police assistance from Madhapur police for maintaining law and order.

Next hearing

The High Court has posted the matter for further hearing on December 23.