Alina
Revanth Reddy vs AIMIM Relations in pressure
Revanth Reddy-AIMIM Relations Strained Over HYDRA’s Actions
Ruffled Political Relations in Telangana
Telangana’s political landscape is witnessing a shake-up as the actions of the newly formed Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA) agency are causing ripples. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s launch of HYDRA has raised concerns, especially with the All India Majlis-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), a party that has so far maintained friendly relations with him. The cause of friction? HYDRA has set its sights on properties, including a college reportedly built by AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi.
AIMIM Under HYDRA’s Radar
In recent days, AIMIM Chandrayangutta MLA Akbaruddin Owaisi’s Fathima Owaisi College has fallen under the scanner of HYDRA, which is tasked with demolishing illegal encroachments built on lake beds. The agency’s aggressive actions are not sitting well with AIMIM, and it’s left party members wondering why Revanth Reddy would take such a political risk. Akbaruddin Owaisi, along with his brother and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, has voiced disapproval of the ongoing actions by HYDRA. The tension is further heightened by demands from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the Telangana government to probe encroachments by AIMIM as well.
HYDRA’s Sweep of Illegal Structures
HYDRA’s creation in July was swift, with little discussion, and its actions have been relentless since then. The agency has been demolishing illegal structures across Hyderabad, reclaiming over 40 acres of encroached land, including land owned by high-profile individuals such as actor Nagarjuna and various political figures. The move has been bold, with a focus on reclaiming lake beds, and it has certainly unsettled several powerful individuals.
The demolitions have not spared AIMIM either. Among the encroachments reclaimed by HYDRA in August were 12 acres of land from the Bum-Rukn-Ud-Dowla lake in Rajendranagar, which included illegal structures belonging to AIMIM MLA Mohammed Mubeen and MLC Mirza Rahmat Baig. The demolished properties included several multi-story buildings, raising further concerns for the AIMIM, especially as rumors swirl about HYDRA eyeing other properties linked to the party.
AIMIM Questions Revanth Reddy’s Actions
AIMIM functionaries are questioning Revanth Reddy’s motives, speculating whether his actions are purely political or part of a broader agenda. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior AIMIM member pointed out that HYDRA’s activities are not limited to AIMIM properties alone. They also question if the lakes HYDRA claims to be protecting will genuinely be revived or if this is a short-term political maneuver. The legalities surrounding HYDRA’s demolitions could lead to court challenges, putting the agency’s future actions under scrutiny.
Congress-AIMIM Alliance Under Strain?
Ever since Congress rose to power in Telangana in 2023, Revanth Reddy has maintained a cordial relationship with the Owaisi brothers. The AIMIM supported Congress during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, a partnership that previously existed between AIMIM and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (TRS, now BRS). However, HYDRA’s actions have raised concerns within AIMIM ranks, and there is uncertainty about the future of the relationship between the two parties. While AIMIM seems perturbed, a senior Congress leader stated that there is no selective targeting by HYDRA and that illegal properties belonging to political leaders from various parties, including BRS, Congress, and BJP, are under scrutiny.
Public Support or Political Risk?
Revanth Reddy’s stance on illegal encroachments has garnered mixed reactions. Political experts believe that while HYDRA’s activities could potentially alienate wealthy individuals and political elites, it may win over common citizens, especially in light of the ongoing Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections. According to Professor E Venkatesu of the University of Hyderabad, if HYDRA’s efforts are sustained and genuine, it could help the Congress party by attracting mass support. However, if the actions are perceived as a short-lived political gimmick, it could backfire.
HYDRA’s Expanding Role
HYDRA, initially created as a rebranded version of the Disaster Management department, has been rapidly expanding its scope. In July, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy recommended extending HYDRA’s purview to encompass a 2,000 square kilometer area, covering parts of Hyderabad up to the Outer Ring Road (ORR). This expansion has only fueled HYDRA’s aggressive actions, with daily demolitions of illegal encroachments becoming a common sight in the city.
The Uncertain Future of Revanth-AIMIM Ties
The question remains: will HYDRA’s actions further strain the relationship between Revanth Reddy and AIMIM? For now, the Owaisi brothers seem cautious about pushing back too hard, but their discontent is palpable. Whether Revanth Reddy’s gamble with HYDRA will pay off politically or whether it will alienate key allies like AIMIM is yet to be seen.
