HYDERABAD: The Telangana High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the Rangareddy district collector for failing to submit an affidavit after more than three months, stating that this reflected poorly on his diligence. “What is stopping you? You have not filed the report even after three months,” remarked the court. Justice EV Venugopal made these comments while addressing a petition and contempt case regarding alleged illegal constructions on government lands classified as prohibited in Nagaram village, Maheswaram mandal.
The disputed lands are reportedly part of Bhoodan properties, with allegations that several current and retired IAS and IPS officers and their family members have purchased portions.
The judge pointed out continued non-compliance with previous orders, stating, “You (the collector) have not adhered to earlier court directives, nor have you complied with the orders in the contempt case.”
In response, the assistant government pleader (revenue) explained that the delay was due to relevant records being seized by the Enforcement Directorate, and efforts were being made to recover them.
The petitioner’s counsel, Birla Mallesh, highlighted that despite the petition being pending, authorities had not inspected the disputed site. The judge questioned why officials had not verified the location.
Following a request for more time from the assistant government pleader, the court granted a short extension, mandating the collector to file the required report before the next hearing. The judge also instructed the builder involved in the disputed construction to submit a counter-affidavit.
