Hydra Demolition in Hafiz Baba Nagar – Protests, Arrests & Political Backlash

Massive Demolition Drive in Hafiz Baba Nagar Sparks Protests and Arrests

By Naveed Uddin Khan Uzair

A large-scale demolition drive was carried out today in Hafiz Baba Nagar, Chandangutta area by the Hydra authorities, targeting homes that had been occupied for the past 15 years. Early in the morning, Hydra officials, accompanied by local police and GHMC representatives, began dismantling houses, rendering many families homeless. The residents, who claimed to have been living there legally for over a decade, were evicted, sparking widespread protests in the area.

Local leaders swiftly arrived at the scene to express solidarity with the displaced families, demanding clarity on the sudden demolition. The protests escalated as nearly a thousand youth reportedly attempted to block the demolition process, resulting in their arrests. The heavy police presence and the scale of the operation raised concerns among community members about the forceful nature of the evictions.

Questions of Legality and Fairness

The demolition has triggered serious questions regarding the legality of the action. Many residents expressed frustration, questioning how their homes, which had been established for 15 years, were suddenly deemed illegal. “If these homes were illegal, then who sold us this land? Why were we paying municipal taxes and utility bills for so many years?” asked one of the affected homeowners. Residents also accused Hydra authorities of selectively targeting the poor while ignoring illegal structures owned by influential figures.

Eyewitnesses reported that during the eviction, Hydra police handled women residents without the presence of female officers, violating established legal protocols. “Our women were dragged out of their homes without lady police officers. This is a clear violation of rights,” said a local activist. Allegations of excessive force and mishandling of women have added to the growing outrage against Hydra’s methods.

Political Reactions and Accusations

The incident has sparked political controversy, with opposition parties accusing the Congress-led government of targeting vulnerable communities while shielding powerful landowners. “This is nothing but a targeted attack on the poor. The rich who have built illegal structures are untouched, while ordinary families are left on the streets,” stated a leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The BRS party also criticized the move, indicating that this could become a major political issue in upcoming elections. “Congress’s negligence towards the poor and its selective enforcement of law will not go unnoticed,” said a BRS spokesperson during a press meet.

Legal Action to Follow

Residents, with the support of local political leaders, have vowed to take legal action against Hydra and the Revenue Department for what they describe as an unlawful eviction. They claim that many of the homes demolished had been paid for through legal channels, with taxes and documentation provided to local authorities. “We will take this to the High Court. Hydra has overstepped its boundaries, and we will fight for justice,” promised a local representative.

Further protests are expected in the coming days as community members organize to demand accountability and justice for the displaced families.

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