Owaisi Challenges HYDRA Demolitions: Will Government Offices on Hussain Sagar and Necklace Road Be Next?
HYDERABAD—As the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Property Eviction and Protection (HYDRA) force intensifies its demolition drive against illegal constructions across Hyderabad, AIMIM Chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi raised pointed questions about the selective targeting of structures. Following the demolition of parts of the N Convention Center, Owaisi challenged HYDRA to apply the same standards to government offices and structures built within the Full Tank Level (FTL) zones, particularly around Hussain Sagar and Necklace Road.
"Will HYDRA also demolish the government offices built on encroached land around Hussain Sagar? What about Necklace Road, which also falls within the FTL zone? Will you dig that up too?" Owaisi questioned sharply, bringing the ongoing demolitions into the political spotlight.
The demolition drive, which has drawn both support and criticism, has become a hot topic across the state. Congress leaders have defended the actions, claiming they are necessary to preserve the city’s water bodies. However, Owaisi's remarks highlight the ongoing debate over whether these actions are being evenly applied, especially when influential individuals or government properties are involved.
Owaisi further pointed out that several government offices and properties in Hyderabad also lie within FTL zones. He referenced the golf course built on encroached land near Golkonda, where high-ranking officials frequently play, asking if HYDRA would take action there as well. "If you need photos, I can provide them," Owaisi quipped, underscoring his skepticism about the impartiality of the demolition campaign.
The MP also took the opportunity to criticize the central government, accusing it of targeting Muslim properties through legislative means, specifically mentioning a bill proposed by the BJP against the Waqf Board. "The Modi government aims to eliminate Muslims by seizing Waqf properties. How can Waqf properties that have existed for centuries suddenly require deeds?" he asked, questioning the legal rationale behind the move.
Owaisi’s statements have ignited further debate on the fairness and motivations behind the ongoing demolitions, drawing attention to the broader implications for Hyderabad's urban development and religious communities.
