'Temporary jail for officers': Supreme Court tears into Telangana government over forest destruction

April 16, 2025 by News Desk

The Telangana government faced the Supreme Court’s full wrath on Tuesday for the unauthorized clearing of nearly 100 acres of forest land near Hyderabad Central University. A bench led by Justice BR Gavai, alongside Justice AG Masih, issued a scathing rebuke, condemning the move as illegal, reckless, and environmentally devastating.

“What was the tearing urgency to do this in three days… and on holidays?” Justice Gavai demanded. “If you wanted to build something, you should have taken permission. We are only concerned with the presence of bulldozers and the erasing of the forest.”

The court was particularly disturbed by video evidence showing displaced wildlife — herbivorous animals fleeing for shelter, some of which were attacked by stray dogs. It slammed the state for allegedly “self-exempting” animals from protection lists, an act the court found deeply troubling.

In a stern warning, the bench said senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, could face “temporary jail” if a clear and immediate plan to restore the deforested land isn’t presented. “If you want to save your Chief Secretary, come up with a plan… otherwise we don’t know how many of your officers will go to temporary jail,” Justice Gavai said bluntly.

The Supreme Court also reiterated its April 3 order, which bans any further activity on the land, except actions necessary to protect remaining trees and wildlife. It reminded the state of a 1996 judgment requiring states to follow strict guidelines before cutting trees, emphasizing that “even other governments come to court to seek permission”.

The controversy surrounds a redevelopment project on 400 acres adjacent to Hyderabad Central University, which has sparked outrage from environmentalists and students. The Vata Foundation, an NGO, has sought national park status for the area due to its ecological significance.

With the next hearing set for May 15, the Telangana government has little time — and even less room for error.