Kishan Reddy’s Open Letter to CM Revanth Reddy : A Critique of Demolitions in Hyderabad

_Hyderabad, September 26_In a strongly worded open letter addressed to Telangana Chief Minister RevanthReddy, Union Minister for Tourism, G. Kishan Reddy has raised serious concerns over the ongoing demolition drives in Hyderabad. He questioned the motives and legality behind the government’s aggressive actions, calling it a blatant disregard for the well-being of the city’s poor and middle-class citizens.**”Governments should build, not demolish”**Kishan Reddy expressed his dissatisfaction, accusing the state government of seeking fame through destruction. “Governments should make a name for themselves by building and creating opportunities, but it seems you want to make a name by demolishing homes and livelihoods,” Reddy remarked in his letter, condemning the large-scale demolitions that are affecting countless families.**HYDRA Controversy**At the heart of the controversy is the Hyderabad Development and Regulation Authority (HYDRA), whose recent decision to deem several constructions illegal has stirred public unrest. Reddy took issue with this, questioning how constructions that were once authorized by key municipal bodies like the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) could now be declared illegal. “How does HYDRA have the authority to override permissions granted by GHMC and HMDA?” he asked.**Innocent citizens paying the price**Reddy highlighted that it is the ordinary people who are suffering as a result of mistakes made by officials. “If the officials make a mistake, will the people be punished for it?” he asked, adding that previous governments had regularized several illegal constructions, ensuring that citizens were not victimized for procedural oversights.**Social responsibility and dialogue needed**The Union Minister also stressed the need for a more humane approach in addressing illegal constructions. He urged the government to hold discussions with affected citizens before initiating demolition drives. “The government should not carry out demolitions without consulting the victims. A solution should be reached through dialogue, not destruction.”Calling on the state government to exercise its social responsibility, Reddy emphasized that the well-being of Hyderabad’s citizens, particularly those from the poor and middle-class segments, must take precedence over administrative errors.**A plea for justice**Reddy concluded by urging the Chief Minister to reconsider the demolitions and work towards a more equitable solution that doesn’t harm the city’s most vulnerable residents. He warned that continuing with the current approach would tarnish the government’s legacy and deepen social inequalities.Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka