Hyderabad: Senior IAS officer Smita Sabharwal has landed in controversy once again, this time over an AI-generated image related to the Kanch Gachibowli land issue. The Cyberabad Police have issued her a notice for resharing the disputed image, originally posted by the ‘Hi Hyderabad’ X (formerly Twitter) account on March 31. Authorities allege that the image contributed to the spread of misinformation using artificial intelligence.
The image, which pertains to alleged irregularities in land usage in the Gachibowli area, has triggered legal scrutiny. The police have taken action against multiple individuals for sharing similar content, and Sabharwal’s repost has now drawn official attention. She appeared before Gachibowli Police for questioning and later responded via social media, questioning the selective issuance of notices.
“I am cooperating with the police, but over 2,000 people have shared the same AI-generated image. Will notices be issued to all of them?” Sabharwal posted on X, calling the police action “selective targeting” and stressing that “everyone is equal before the law.”
This incident adds to a series of controversies involving the officer. Earlier, her tweet about disability reservations in civil services had sparked debate. She was also previously served a notice over alleged misuse of university funds for renting a car.
Political observers note that Sabharwal’s continued public criticism of government policies may be seen as a direct challenge to the Revanth Reddy-led administration. Her posts have triggered a polarized response, with some backing her assertiveness, while others argue she has crossed administrative boundaries.
Government sources indicate that disciplinary action could be considered under service conduct rules, which prohibit civil servants from making public statements against the government. If pursued, such action could further escalate the matter.
Sabharwal has held several key roles in the past, including Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister and Secretary of the Irrigation Department. From January 4 to November 11, 2024, she served as Member Secretary of the Telangana State Finance Corporation. She is currently posted as Secretary, Youth Advancement, Tourism and Culture Department.
With debate intensifying around civil service neutrality and social media expression, the outcome of this episode is being watched closely across bureaucratic and political circles.