Hyderabad, July 2 –
The Telangana High Court has come down heavily on the state police for unlawfully intervening in civil matters. In a strong rebuke, the court questioned the role of law enforcement officers who allegedly pressured individuals into land settlements despite pending court proceedings.
The case that sparked this reaction involves a man from *Bandlaguda, under **Nagole Circle, who was reportedly taken to a police station on **June 19. According to the petition filed, police officers allegedly forced him to settle a *land dispute worth ₹55 lakh with a local real estate agent.
Court Asks, “Will the Police Never Understand Civil vs Criminal Jurisdiction?”
While hearing the plea, the Telangana High Court expressed serious concern over the recurring police interference in civil matters. “If we tell them not to interfere in civil cases, won’t the police understand?” the bench questioned, showing visible frustration.
The bench also criticized the Rachakonda Commissioner and *Nagole police personnel, asking why coercive actions were taken despite an *injunction order in place protecting the petitioner. The court hinted that such actions could amount to misuse of power and violate citizens’ constitutional rights.
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on the Way
In response to the increasing number of such incidents, the High Court has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to immediately prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure police do not overstep their boundaries in civil disputes. The court emphasized the urgent need for clarity among field officers on the difference between criminal enforcement and civil proceedings.
Land Disputes: A Growing Concern
Land disputes remain one of the most sensitive issues in Telangana, often leading to legal complications and law enforcement challenges. The misuse of police machinery in these private disputes has raised alarms in legal circles. Experts say such interference undermines the judicial process and can result in serious human rights violations.
What Happens Next?
The High Court has made it clear: police must not act as arbitrators in civil cases. A clear boundary must be drawn. With the DGP now under orders to draft an SOP, this case may become a turning point in how law enforcement interacts with civil disputes in Telangana.
Key Takeaways:
- Telangana High Court slams police for civil case interference.
- Man from Bandlaguda forced to settle ₹55 lakh land dispute.
- Police acted despite court injunction protecting petitioner.
- High Court orders DGP to issue SOP for such cases.
- Clear warning: police must stay out of civil disputes.