KPHB High-Rise Dwellers to Boycott Election Over Property Rights Limbo

HYDERABAD: Vexed with alleged government apathy over a land ownership issue, residents of high-rises, condominiums and gated communities in Kukatpally Housing Board have decided to boycott the elections in a sign of protest and discontent.

Residents said that despite going through proper channels and getting their properties registered, mostly in 2010, the government in October 2021 informed them that their properties were built on government land. They cited issuance permits, approvals from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), water connections, fire department clearances and grants of loans by government banks, to question the lack of government remedy.

The dispute has not only led to uncertainty, but has also disrupted flat registrations. Some residents lamented their lack of property rights, hindering their ability to make decisions about their homes. The situation has also adversely affected property values and rental incomes in these communities.

The buildings include Prajay Megapolis, Mahindra Ashvita Lifespaces and Aditya, among others, all of which account for 4,000 voters. Prajay Megapolis comprises approximately 1,100 flats, with the completion of phase 2 adding 1,500 more units. Mahindra Ashvita and Aditya towers have 800 and 1,000 houses, respectively.

A resident, not wishing to be named, said, “And if they learnt of it only in 2021, why aren't they doing anything about fixing it and just putting a ban instead?”

They also said that despite the government claiming land ownership, it continues to collect property tax. Biareddy Narasimha Reddy, a resident of Prajay Megapolis, said, “Even if they realised it recently, why is the property tax still being collected?”

Ravi Bhupati, a resident, highlighted the economic toll on the community, saying, “We're not businessmen or politicians. We are simple private employees who earn hand-to-mouth with meagre savings. Several people who lost their jobs and or suffered death of relatives wanted to sell their homes, but couldn't because of this ban.”

The residents expressed dissatisfaction over their MLA Madhavaram Krishna Rao assuring them of an amicable solution, but to no avail for three years so far. They questioned why they have to bear the brunt of government inaction.

While the overarching stand is to boycott elections, residents said they would engage with Opposition leaders and candidates who offer concrete action plans and solutions to their woes.