The court directed authorities to maintain existing conditions at the site until further hearing. The interim order was issued while hearing a house motion petition filed by Gajja Rangarao and 11 others.

Petitioners allege forced evictions without prior notice

Arguing for the petitioners, advocate R. Chandrasekhar Reddy said nearly 2,000 personnel, along with JCBs and bulldozers, were deployed for demolitions. He said residents were evicted from their homes without prior notice.

Ameenpur demolitions leave families homeless overnight

Authorities say land mostly vacant, action lawful

Counsel for HYDRAA told the court that most of Survey No. 119 is vacant land and no illegal structures were being demolished. He said the action was taken to implement earlier court orders and to secure government land as per revenue department instructions.

The counsel also pointed out that earlier petitions seeking electricity connections in Survey Nos. 119 and 121 were dismissed, indicating lack of title for the petitioners.

Representing the Home Department, counsel said police provided protection only on HYDRA's request.

After hearing arguments, Justice B. Vijay Sen Reddy directed maintenance of status quo on constructions in Survey No. 119 until the next hearing. The case was adjourned to April 27.

Status quo applies only to existing structures

HYDRAA officials later said the court supported their actions carried out on Saturday in Ameenpur mandal. They clarified that the status quo applies only to existing structures in Survey No. 119.

They said no structures in the Thanda were being demolished and added that the court permitted fencing of government or disputed land.

Officials said work would resume from 6 am Sunday after a break due to staff fatigue.