Hydra Commissioner: High Court orders removal. The Telangana High Court has ordered the immediate removal of Hydra Commissioner Ranganath after expressing deep displeasure over his department’s disregard for court orders. The court was particularly angered by Hydra’s actions concerning the Lothkunta lands under Malkajigiri, where officials defied a clear directive not to approach the area.
The controversy began when Santa Shriram Constructions Private Limited filed a contempt petition, claiming Hydra had violated the court’s orders regarding these lands. Hydra Commissioner Ranganath was named as a respondent in the case. Despite the High Court’s repeated summons for him to appear in person and provide an explanation, Ranganath submitted only a written apology, claiming he had not gone near the Malkajigiri lands.
To verify the facts, the court appointed an amicus curiae to prepare a field report. Upon reviewing the findings, the judges expressed serious anger, stating that Ranganath had no regard for the court’s authority. The High Court commented that it was outrageous that the Hydra commissioner did not pay attention to the orders issued. This led to the demand for his immediate removal.
Hydra has faced significant criticism since its inception, with complaints about conducting demolitions early in the morning or at midnight during holidays. Over 63 crore contempt petitions have been filed against Ranganath, all requiring investigation. The court’s latest order will have a major impact on Hydra’s future operations, signaling a strict stance against any further disregard for judicial directives.