PD Act On Temple Land Encroachers: Konda Surekha

Telangana Endowments Minister Konda Surekha today said that the government would not hesitate to invoke the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against individuals illegally occupying lands belonging to temples and the Endowments Department.

Addressing the media after inspecting encroached lands at Chengicherla in Medchal-Malkajgiri district, the minister said that nearly 30.23 acres across three survey numbers in the area had been identified as Endowments Department property but had been illegally occupied by certain individuals since 2022.

"Based on information provided by local leader Vajresh Yadav, we initiated an inquiry. The concerned authorities have already completed the survey, and the results confirm that the land belongs to the Endowments Department. Strict action will be taken against the encroachers once the final report is submitted," Surekha said.

She directed officials to immediately fence the land to prevent further encroachment and ensure its protection.

Highlighting the broader issue, the minister said, "Out of the total 91,827 acres of Endowments land across Telangana, nearly 6,000 acres are currently under encroachment. This is unacceptable, and we are committed to reclaiming these lands through legal means," and reaffirmed the government's resolve to safeguard temple properties and uphold the sanctity of religious institutions across the State.

In a separate development, ahead of the upcoming Balkampet Yellamma Kalyanam, Surekha made a surprise visit to the Yellamma temple. She reviewed the ongoing arrangements and interacted with the temple staff to ensure that all preparations were on track for the grand event.