New Delhi: The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the Telangana government over the Hyderabad Central University (HCU) land dispute, calling it a serious issue. The apex court, while hearing a petition on Thursday, raised concerns over large-scale deforestation in the disputed 400-acre land and questioned the state’s actions.
A bench led by Justice Gavai directed the Telangana government to constitute an expert committee within a month to assess the land dispute and submit a report within six months. The court also sought an explanation for the removal of trees in an ecologically sensitive area that serves as a habitat for peacocks, deer, and other wildlife.
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According to an interim report submitted by the Telangana High Court registrar, deforestation has already occurred over 100 acres of land. The Supreme Court, taking suo motu cognizance of the matter, imposed a stay on further deforestation across the 400-acre disputed area.
#BREAKING Issue of mass felling of trees at Kancha Gachibowli (Telangana) reaches #SupremeCourt
Registrar (Judicial) of HC directed to visit site and submit interim report TODAY by 3.30 PM
Chief Secretary of State directed to ensure no felling takes place till further orders pic.twitter.com/0R0Dg48Ncl
— Live Law (@LiveLawIndia) April 3, 2025
The court further held the state Chief Secretary accountable, stating that any construction activity in the area would be his responsibility. Justice Gavai questioned the urgency behind the deforestation and asked whether the government had obtained prior approval from the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) before proceeding.
Observing that the destruction of 100 acres of trees in a single day was highly unusual, the court directed the Chief Secretary to respond to its queries. The Telangana government has been instructed to file an affidavit, and the matter has been posted for the next hearing on April 16.