KA Paul files PIL in Telangana High Court challenging government order on land-use conversion

Hyderabad, November 28: Evangelist-turned politician, Praja Shanti Party founder Dr KA Paul has filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Telangana High Court challenging a recent government order that permits the conversion of certain industrial land parcels in Hyderabad for non-industrial use. The petition (SR Number W.P. (PIL) 54400/2025) seeks a stay on the implementation of the order until the court examines the matter.

In a video statement, Dr Paul said the lands in question were originally allotted to industrial units decades ago at concessional rates for the purpose of promoting industrial development. He argued that any change in land use should be subject to stricter scrutiny and public interest evaluation.

The PIL contends that rising land valuations in the city have prompted some industrial units to scale down operations and seek conversion of industrial land for commercial or real-estate purposes. Dr Paul has requested the court to review the policy implications of such conversions, citing concerns over industrial employment, long-term economic planning, and the appropriate valuation of public assets.

In a video message release to the media on Friday, Dr Paul appealed to the central government to examine the issue, urging that any policy decision on large tracts of industrial land should be taken transparently and in accordance with established norms.

The Telangana High Court is expected to take up the matter after initial scrutiny of the petition.