The Telangana High Court on Thursday voiced severe dissatisfaction with state government officials, particularly from the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), for their failure to assist the court in a significant case concerning alleged encroachment of government land. The court's frustration was so profound that it even mused whether the Durgam Cheruvu lake itself should be put up for auction, highlighting its deep concern over the handling of such sensitive matters.
Judge Recuses Himself Over Agency's Absence
Justice Anil Kumar Jukanti made these sharp observations while hearing a criminal petition filed by BRS legislator from Dubbak, Kotha Prabhakar Reddy. The petition seeks to quash a criminal case registered against him at the Madhapur police station in December 2025. The case alleges that Prabhakar Reddy encroached upon approximately five acres of land belonging to the Durgam Cheruvu lake.
The judge noted with displeasure that neither officials from HYDRAA nor their legal counsel were present in court to provide assistance on the matter. Expressing his frustration, Justice Jukanti stated he would not proceed with hearing the petitioner's arguments in the absence of the very agency tasked with protecting government assets. Consequently, he recused himself from hearing the case.
Case Directed to Chief Justice's Bench
When the petitioner's counsel, R Chandrashekar Reddy, argued that the disputed land was legally purchased and requested an immediate hearing, Justice Jukanti reiterated his discontent. He then directed the high court registry to place the petition before the bench of the Chief Justice for listing before an appropriate bench.
This is not the first time the court has taken a stern view of this case. During a previous hearing on January 6, Justice Jukanti had made strong observations regarding the alleged encroachment of the Durgam Cheruvu lake. He had directed the additional public prosecutor to obtain necessary instructions in the matter by the next date of hearing.
Details of the Alleged Encroachment
The criminal case was registered against Prabhakar Reddy and another accused, Venkat Reddy, based on a formal complaint lodged by a HYDRAA official. The complaint alleges that the accused individuals encroached upon the lake land, filled the area with soil and stones, and have been using the encroached territory for commercial purposes since 2014.
The court's strong remarks and the subsequent recusal underscore the judiciary's growing impatience with administrative lapses in cases of environmental protection and public asset preservation. The suggestion of auctioning the lake, though likely rhetorical, powerfully conveys the court's exasperation with the perceived negligence in safeguarding vital water bodies and government land in Hyderabad.
