Fatima Owaisi College Under HYDRAA Review

Hyderabad, July 7, 2025: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has revealed that Fatima Owaisi College, operated by a trust linked to AIMIM, is under legal review for allegedly being constructed within the Full Tank Level (FTL) of Suram Cheruvu (also known as Salkam Cheruvu) in Bandlaguda. Initial findings indicate clear encroachment, but final action is pending further documentation and legal process.

Speaking during a live citizen interaction on X Spaces on Sunday, July 6, HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath stated, “As per the initial probe and the documents available, it is established that the college is indeed situated on the FTL of the Hyderabad lake. The final notice is awaited.”

Social Contribution vs Environmental Violation

Despite the findings, the Commissioner emphasized a balanced view. “We don’t see the party, but we see the social side. Asaduddin Owaisi and Akbaruddin Owaisi’s college has educated over 10,000 poor Muslim students, from KG to PG — many of them study free of cost,” he said.

The college has long been recognized for offering accessible education to underprivileged communities in the Old City, serving as a crucial institution for Muslim students.

However, Ranganath stressed that legal compliance and environmental protection cannot be compromised. HYDRAA is following due process in line with a Supreme Court ruling, which does not require prior demolition notices for encroachments on lakes, nalas, roads, or railway lands.

HYDRAA’s Transparent Process

Ranganath outlined HYDRAA’s investigative framework: “Once a complaint is received, our team inspects the documents, conducts on-site verification, and engages in joint surveys. Only after a complete technical review do we take appropriate action.”

Currently, joint and technical surveys are being carried out to confirm the extent of encroachment, and a final decision regarding Fatima Owaisi College will be made upon their conclusion.

Crackdown on Illegal Encroachments

Since its formation in 2024, HYDRAA has launched a citywide crackdown on illegal structures, particularly those built on lakes and public lands.

In recent months, HYDRAA has recovered property worth ₹1,000 crore near Bum-Rukn-ud-Dowla lake in Shivrampally, linked to AIMIM leaders.
In another operation near Chandrayangutta, land worth ₹30 crore was cleared, also linked to AIMIM interests.

Public and Environmental Response

While community leaders have called for a sensitive and fair approach, especially given the educational role of the institution, environmental activists are demanding the full restoration of Suram Cheruvu, in line with urban ecological priorities.

As the city awaits a final verdict on the college, the issue has sparked a larger debate over balancing development, community needs, and environmental protection.

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