The recent order from the Telangana Police restricting public gatherings and protests in Hyderabad, issued under the Congress government’s watch, brings to light a glaring inability to manage law and order effectively in the state. Under the pretext of maintaining public peace, the government appears more focused on silencing public outcry and sidestepping its responsibilities toward citizens.
In a controversial move, Commissioner of Police A. V. Ranganath issued an order on October 27, 2024, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and U/s 144 CrPC, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people in Hyderabad for 30 days, citing concerns over public order.
BJP leader Amit Malviya criticized the Telangana Congress government on X, stating, “In a move reminiscent of Aurangzeb, the Congress government has effectively banned Diwali celebrations by imposing Section 144 restrictions, prohibiting gatherings and processions from October 27 to November 28, 2024.”
In an Aurangzeb kind of move, the Congress Govt in Telangana has put a ban on Diwali celebrations, by imposing restrictions under Section 144, which prohibits gatherings and processions, from Oct 27 to Nov 28, 2024. On the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras too, the Congress… pic.twitter.com/UG11Eiidvr
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) October 30, 2024
Critics argue that these orders signify an admission of the government’s failure to maintain law and order, a responsibility that still falls under Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. They highlight several key developments related to this issue.
Key incidents:
Temple Attacks and Police Action: The attack on Durga idol at Exhibition grounds at Nampally and further developments and the attack on the Mutyalamma Temple in Secunderabad by Salman, have sparked outrage among locals demanding justice and strict action. However, the police’s response has been criticized as inadequate, with reports of lathi charges on peaceful protesters, deepening mistrust. Moreover, the government was like in protecting the mosque and unknown residents who were trying to incite the communal violence. This incident highlights alleged lapses in law enforcement and raises questions about the Telangana Congress government’s ability to maintain order and protect religious sites, exacerbating concerns over the administration’s handling of public grievances and security.
HYDRA demolitions and the Musi River Renovation Project: HYDRA victims are organizing large-scale protests against the state government’s failure, and displaced people under the Musi River Renovation Project are planning to raise their voices in the democratic setup. The frustration is mounting over inadequate communication, lack of support for those displaced, and the prioritization of beautification over genuine environmental solutions. This collective action from residents of Hyderabad aims to hold the government accountable for its negligence and demand more responsible urban planning.
Police Battalion Protests: The ongoing protests by Special Police Battalions across the state expose deeper issues within the administration, particularly the “One Police, One Policy” movement. That police forces themselves feel compelled to protest in Hyderabad shows the internal crisis in the Congress government’s management of its own law enforcement agencies. This is a bold statement against a government that has failed to prioritize the needs and welfare of its defenders.
Waqf Board Land Claims: With the Waqf Board claiming around 750 acres of land in Malkajigiri, citizens are eager to peacefully express their concerns against the implications of such claims. Rather than engaging with these valid concerns, the government issues orders curtailing any form of dissent. The police order restricts the voices of those protesting against decisions that directly impact their communities and livelihood, thereby eroding public trust in the government.
Job Aspirants’ Protest: In October, job aspirants held a dharna at Ashok Nagar, demanding the rescheduling of Group 1 examinations. The Congress government’s heavy-handed response, marked by police lathi charges, escalated the situation into chaos. This incident not only showcased the administration’s inability to engage constructively with citizens but also highlighted its failure to uphold law and order, further fueling public frustration against the government.
Delay in Raithu Bharosa Payments: The ongoing delays in the disbursement of financial assistance under the Rythu Bharosa scheme have left farmers in Telangana fuming. The Congress government’s failure to release promised funds has led to accusations of cheating, particularly concerning crop loan waivers. This negligence exacerbates farmers’ hardships and erodes trust in the government’s commitment to support agriculture, intensifying anger against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his administration.
Unfulfilled Electoral Promises: The growing discontent is largely rooted in the Congress government’s repeated failure to deliver on electoral promises. As frustrations mount over various issues, including the handling of protests and financial aid for farmers, public sentiment against the Chief Minister and Congress leaders continues to sour.
Public Protests and Designated Zones: While the government claims to allow peaceful protests at Indira Park Dharna Chowk, this designated zone is no more than a token space that limits citizens’ freedom to express grievances.
Government’s Failure to Uphold Law and Order:
The Congress government’s repeated failure to respond adequately to Hyderabad’s rising concerns demonstrates its lack of administrative control and inability to engage with citizen issues. Commissioner CV Anand’s justification, citing “specific intelligence inputs,” fails to address the root of public dissatisfaction. The government’s focus on blanket prohibitions rather than constructive dialogue appears as an attempt to dodge accountability rather than ensure safety.
Thinly Veiled Intimidation of the Public:
This police order, ostensibly aimed at maintaining peace, reads as a subtle form of intimidation meant to deter the public from speaking out against questionable government decisions. The selective enforcement of restrictions on rallies and gatherings shows a clear disregard for freedom of expression.
This order emphasizes that the Congress government in Telangana has consistently struggled to uphold its duty to safeguard both public interest and law and order. The government’s approach only alienates citizens further and stifles genuine voices seeking justice. Instead of hiding behind prohibitive orders, the administration should address the public’s concerns directly, engage with peaceful protesters, and restore its commitment to a secure and free society.
