The Telangana High Court on Thursday reprimanded the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Protection Agency (HYDRAA) for allegedly carrying out a demolition at a residential compound in Kokapet without issuing prior notice to the residents. Justice Nagesh Bheemapaka observed that such action was “not proper,” especially when a land dispute is already pending before the court. The court passed interim orders directing HYDRAA and other authorities to maintain status quo at the Jaistha Villa compound in Kokapet village, Gandipet mandal, Rangareddy district.
The Jaistha Villa Owners Maintenance Mutually Aided Cooperative Society filed a vacation house motion petition challenging the alleged demolition carried out by HYDRAA officials on May 26. The society approached the court seeking relief after officials reportedly entered the premises and attempted to demolish the rear compound wall and erected fencing without any prior intimation. Justice Bheemapaka questioned why the agency had proceeded with the action without issuing any notice to residents or the society.
Counsel for the petitioner informed the court that Survey no 84 in question measures 9.19 acres, of which 8.14 acres are classified as patta land. The government had earlier acquired 1.09 acres classified as “Sarkari Shikam” land for a pond restoration project. The remaining 6.14 acres were developed by Goldfish Adobe Private Limited through agreements with landowners, and villas were constructed on the plot and handed over to residents in 2019.
The petitioner’s counsel alleged that despite residents attempting to meet HYDRAA officials and present their case, they were not given a hearing. Officials entered the premises on May 26 and attempted to demolish the rear compound wall and erected fencing without any prior notice to the residents or the cooperative society. The society contended that such action was arbitrary and violated the principles of natural justice.
The High Court expressed concern over the manner in which the demolition was carried out, particularly when the land dispute was already sub judice. Justice Bheemapaka emphasized that authorities should follow due process and issue proper notices before undertaking any such action. The court directed HYDRAA and other authorities to maintain the status quo at the property pending further hearing in the matter.
