Fatima Owaisi College probed for Hyderabad lake encroachment
“We don’t look at political affiliations; instead, we focus on the social contributions,” said the chief of HYDRAA. “Asaduddin Owaisi and Akbaruddin Owaisi’s educational institution has made a remarkable impact by providing education to more than 10,000 underprivileged Muslim students—from kindergarten to post-graduation. This college has played a crucial role in uplifting the community, offering opportunities to families who could not otherwise afford quality education. Regardless of political leanings, we must acknowledge the positive change brought about through such initiatives that benefit the youth and strengthen our society.”
Hyderabad, July 7 – The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has revealed that the controversial Fatima Owaisi College, situated in Bandlaguda, is built within the Full Tank Level (FTL) of the historic Suram Cheruvu (also known as Salkam Cheruvu). This revelation has triggered fresh debates about balancing environmental protection with social impact, especially in a city already struggling with lake degradation and illegal constructions.
HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath made this disclosure during a citizen interaction hosted on the social media platform X Spaces on Sunday, July 6.
“As per the initial probe and the papers available, it is established that the college is indeed situated on the FTL of the Hyderabad lake. The final notice is awaited,” said Ranganath, making clear that although the facts have emerged, formal decisions and actions are pending until the legal procedures are complete.
The College’s Social Impact
The college is operated by a charitable trust reportedly linked to the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), a political party with strong roots in the Old City of Hyderabad. Over the years, the institution has earned recognition for providing free or subsidized education to economically weaker sections, especially within the Muslim community.
“We don’t see the party, but we see the social side. Quite a number of them study free of charge,” Ranganath said, acknowledging the positive social contributions of the institution.
Yet, he was firm in stating that while the agency respects the college’s community impact, no one is exempt from legal compliance. “The law treats everyone equally. We are governed by facts and documentation,” he added.
Demolitions in Line with Supreme Court Guidelines
In light of growing scrutiny over urban encroachments in Hyderabad, HYDRAA has reiterated that its actions are grounded in a Supreme Court ruling which mandates legal action against encroachments on lakes, nalas, roads, and railway lands. According to the agency, demolition is not necessarily a first step but remains a legal possibility depending on the extent and nature of the encroachment.
The commissioner also emphasized that technical and joint surveys are ongoing around Suram Cheruvu to determine the actual boundaries, the extent of encroachment, and whether restoration efforts are feasible without harming students’ access to education.
Massive Encroachment Crackdown Led by HYDRAA
HYDRAA, a relatively new agency formed in 2024, has emerged as one of the most active urban enforcement bodies in Hyderabad. It has spearheaded multiple high-profile crackdowns against illegal constructions, especially those affecting lakes and heritage areas.
Recently, HYDRAA made headlines for reclaiming land worth over ₹1,000 crore at the Bum‑Rukn‑ud‑Dowla lake near Shivrampally, a zone also linked to influential political figures.
While these operations have been praised by environmental groups and civil society activists, they have also drawn concern from residents and political supporters who argue that enforcement must be tempered with social considerations.
- HYDRAA’s Initial Findings:
- Official action is pending the final notice and review of legal documentation.
- Educational Contributions:
- The college has provided education to over 10,000 underprivileged Muslim students.
- Offers courses from kindergarten to post-graduation; many study free of charge.
- HYDRAA’s Statement:
- Commissioner AV Ranganath says legality supersedes social contributions.
- Emphasized transparent documentation and detailed ground surveys before action.
- Legal Framework:
- HYDRAA actions are based on a Supreme Court ruling that encroachments on public lands including lakes and nalas do not require prior demolitions to be illegal.
- Environmental protection is paramount, regardless of the nature of the institution.
- Broader Crackdown Context:
- Properties worth ₹30 crore reclaimed near Fatima Owaisi College at Chandrayangutta.
- Public Reactions:
- Environmentalists demand full restoration of Suram Cheruvu.
- Community members call for a balanced, sensitive approach to enforcement.
- Next Steps:
- Ongoing joint and technical surveys to determine encroachment boundaries.
- Final action to be based on legal review and environmental considerations.
