Hyderabad City Police Commissioner CV Anand has enforced Section 144 across Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Cyberabad for a month to maintain law and order, restricting public gatherings such as protests, rallies, and meetings unless authorized by the police. This decision has sparked criticism from the public, prompting the commissioner to clarify its intent.

In a recent statement on X, CV Anand emphasized that the enforcement is not a curfew but a measure to empower police stations to act swiftly in uncontrollable situations. He stated, “This notification has nothing to do with the Deepawali festival celebrations. We have intelligence reports indicating that certain groups are planning various agitations, including surprise raids on key government locations such as the secretariat and the CM’s residence. This notification provides legal backing for police actions against individuals involved in such plans.”

The directive comes amid increasing unrest among the Telangana Special Police and their families, who are advocating for a uniform policing system. Recent protests outside the state secretariat have led to disciplinary actions against 49 officers, including 39 suspensions and ten dismissals, signaling a growing discontent within the ranks.

Additionally, a separate controversy surrounding the BRS party has added to the tension, as allegations of government bias arose following the discovery of a large quantity of foreign liquor at a farmhouse belonging to relatives of a BRS leader.

As the situation unfolds, the enforcement of Section 144 aims to preemptively address potential unrest while navigating the delicate balance between maintaining order and respecting citizens' rights to assembly.