Assigned land under encroachment in Mokila

Metro India News | RANGAREDDY

Alleged attempts to encroach upon government-assigned land worth over Rs.40 crore in Mokila village of Shankarpally mandal have sparked controversy, with villagers accusing political leaders and officials of facilitating the illegal occupation. The issue has gained significance as land prices in the area continue to soar due to its proximity to Hyderabad's IT corridor.

The dispute revolves around 2.20 acres of assigned land in Survey No. 31 of Mokila village. According to local residents, some leaders associated with the ruling party have allegedly undertaken land levelling, cut down trees and started constructing a compound wall to take possession of the government land. Villagers pointed out that the Mokila Gram Panchayat had earlier passed a unanimous resolution seeking to utilise the surplus government land for public purposes such as a government hospital and a playground. However, with the market value of land increasing sharply, they alleged that efforts are now being made to convert the land for private use.

Residents estimate that land in Mokila and neighbouring Shankarpally commands nearly Rs.20 crore per acre in the open market, placing the total value of the disputed 2.20-acre parcel at over Rs.40-50 crore.

Villagers alleged that when local representatives and residents attempted to stop the encroachment, they faced political pressure. They claimed that a former MLA allegedly contacted local leaders and warned them not to interfere, stating that the land levelling work was being carried out by "their people." Allegations have also emerged that leaders from both the ruling and opposition parties, along with some district-level politicians, have exerted pressure on officials and locals regarding the land.

Residents further alleged that a former sarpanch, considered close to the sitting MLA, has also been linked to the controversy. They accused revenue and police officials of remaining silent despite repeated complaints. According to villagers, representations had earlier been submitted to the Rangareddy District Collector, the Chevella Revenue Divisional Officer and the Shankarpally Tahsildar, but no action was taken.

Locals said the incident reflects a larger pattern of assigned land encroachments across Rangareddy district, where government lands meant for poor beneficiaries are allegedly being transferred through bogus documents and benami transactions. They urged the district administration to immediately protect the Mokila land, conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations and utilise the property for the proposed government hospital and playground instead of allowing it to be encroached upon.