University of Hyderabad Protests Escalate Over Land Dispute and IT Park Development

Students and faculty intensify demonstrations, citing environmental concerns and disputed ownership, as police intervention heightens tensions.

University of Hyderabad students and faculty have launched an indefinite class boycott, protesting the Telangana government's auction of 400 acres of land for IT park development near the campus.
Protesters argue the land is home to significant biodiversity, including 734 plant species, 220 bird species, and vulnerable wildlife such as the Indian Star Tortoise.
The Telangana government asserts ownership of the land, citing a 2024 survey, while the university disputes the claim, stating no such survey was conducted in their presence.
Police intervention, including detentions and alleged use of force to disperse rallies, has further escalated tensions, though police deny using force.
BJP MPs from Telangana have called for central government intervention to halt the land auction process, emphasizing the need for environmental and institutional considerations.