Telangana HC upholds PD Act against Hyderabad’s ‘Ganja Lady Don’ Angoor Bhai

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court has upheld the Preventive Detention (PD) Act invoked against Hyderabad’s infamous ‘Ganja Lady Don’ Angoor Bhai, dismissing her petition and affirming the government’s action to curb repeat drug offenders.

High Court dismisses petition challenging PD Act

A Division Bench of Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya and Justice Gadi Praveen Kumar on Tuesday dismissed the petition filed by Arun Bhai alias Angoor Bhai, who had challenged the detention order issued under the PD Act.

The Bench, after hearing extensive arguments from both sides, ruled that the detention was legally valid and necessary given her repeated involvement in illegal ganja trade and related criminal activities in Hyderabad.

Excise STF identified repeat drug offences

According to officials, the Excise Enforcement Special Task Force (STF) led by Anji Reddy, along with Dhoolpet Excise CI Madhubabu and their team, documented several cases registered against Angoor Bhai for her continued involvement in ganja peddling across Dhoolpet and nearby areas.

Based on their findings, the STF recommended invoking the PD Act to prevent her from resuming drug trafficking operations that posed a threat to public safety.

Advisory Board endorsed detention proposal

Acting on the STF’s proposal, the State Advisory Board reviewed the case on March 10 and endorsed the recommendation for preventive detention.

Following the Board’s advice, Hyderabad District Collector Anudeep Durishetty issued formal detention orders against Angoor Bhai on April 15, under the PD Act provisions.

Government defends PD Act in court

During the hearing, Government Special Pleader Swaroop Orila and Assistant Leader Ravi Kumar strongly defended the action, arguing that Angoor Bhai’s continued drug trafficking activities warranted preventive detention in the interest of public order.

After examining all submissions, the High Court Bench upheld the Collector’s orders, ruling that the detention was both proportionate and in accordance with law.

Excise department welcomes verdict

Welcoming the court’s decision, Excise Enforcement Director Shanwaz Qasim congratulated the STF and Excise staff involved in the operation.

He said the ruling reaffirms the department’s commitment to eliminating organised drug networks operating from Dhoolpet and other parts of Hyderabad.

“The judgment sends a clear message that repeat offenders in the narcotics trade will face stringent preventive action,” he added.