The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed alarm over the recent large-scale removal of trees beside the University of Hyderabad campus, observing that the operation appeared deliberately timed for a long weekend to avoid judicial oversight.
In a stern hearing, the bench warned that unless the Telangana government reinstates the cleared forest area, responsible officials could face contempt charges and jail time.
“Pre-Planned” Operation, Court Asserts
Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, speaking for a bench that included Justice Augustine George Masih, noted that the tree-cutting commenced just before a three-day holiday, when courts would be closed. “Prime facie, it appears that it was all pre-planned. Three days’ holidays coming and you took advantage as court would not be available,” he remarked, underscoring the suspicious timing.
Status Quo Order & Restoration Deadline
On April 3, the Court had taken suo motu cognisance of deforestation in the Kancha Gachibowli Forest and issued a status quo mandate, preserving the remaining trees. During Thursday’s proceedings, the bench reiterated that the state must reverse the damage or choose to see senior bureaucrats—including the chief secretary—in default. “If you want to be saved from contempt, better take a decision to restore the forest,” the bench advised the government’s counsel, Senior Advocate Abhishek Singhvi.
Density Report Contradicts Government Claims
Amicus Curiae K. Parameshwar drew the Court’s attention to a Forest Survey of India report, based on satellite imagery provided to the Central Empowered Committee. The survey indicated that roughly 60% of the 104-acre tract was moderately to heavily forested, challenging any suggestion that the area lacked ecological significance.
Bulldozers, Permissions & Procedure
Photographic evidence submitted to the Court showed dozens of bulldozers at work, prompting questions about procedural lapses. “For felling trees, the state was required to take requisite permission,” the bench reminded counsel. It also queried why the work began Friday rather than the next business day, saying, “If you had bona fides, then why did you not start it on a Monday?”
Sustainable Development Deferred
Singhvi assured the bench that no current activity was ongoing and pledged full compliance. He argued that sustainable development and the proposed IT park could coexist. Yet the Court deferred that debate, emphasizing the immediate issue: “The question is felling of thousands of trees taking advantage of the long weekend,” the Chief Justice said.
The hearing was adjourned to July 23. Meanwhile, student activists who filed FIRs for highlighting the felling were advised to lodge a separate petition. “We are here concerned only with the protection of forest. Don’t enlarge the scope,” the bench clarified.
With the monsoon approaching, the state faces a clear ultimatum: restore the clear-cut land before the rains, or face potential imprisonment for its officials.
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