PNS|Hyderabad
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out fresh raids in Hyderabad on Monday, creating a buzz across the city. The raids, linked to the controversial Bhoodan land scam, focused on properties connected to the Maheshwaram land as well.
ED officials searched the residences of Munawar Khan, Khadeer Unnisa, Sarfan, and Sukur in the Old City, suspecting illegal sale and layout of Bhoodan lands. It may be recalled that IAS officer Amoy Kumar was earlier questioned by the ED in connection with the same case.
The case centres around 103 acres of Bhoodan land located in Survey Nos. 181 and 182 in Nagaram village, Maheshwaram mandal, Ranga Reddy district.
Of this, around 50 acres were allegedly encroached upon and sold to private individuals, who divided the land into
plots for sale. Although the matter is in court now, the ED found that substantial sums of money changed hands during illegal transactions.
After a Vigilance report highlighting irregularities, the ED resumed investigation, which had been dormant for some time. Notices were earlier issued to Amoy Kumar, former Ranga Reddy Collector, and to some former MLAs as well.
The fresh round of raids in Yakutpura, Santosh Nagar and other areas primarily targeted individuals involved in either buying or selling plots carved out of the Bhoodan land. The ED is reportedly focusing on identifying all real estate companies and individuals who purchased or sold such lands.
Khadeer Unnisa has emerged as a key figure in the scam. Her father had donated the 50-acre land parcel to the Bhoodan Board decades ago. In 2021, she claimed succession rights and promptly obtained land registration in her name, allegedly with the help of revenue officials and without proper inquiry. At that time, Amay Kumar was the district Collector.
Subsequently, Khadeer Unnisa and others divided the land into plots and sold them to multiple buyers. Public representatives, IAS and IPS officers are also suspected to have bought portions of this land, especially in Nagaram and Maheshwaram areas, where land prices have sharply risen.
Given that Bhoodan lands are legally protected and not meant for sale, the rapid registration process raised serious concerns. The ED recorded statements from Amoy Kumar and other officials involved during that period.
