Hanumakonda, Oct.7 : Heavy police security was deployed near the historic Bhadrakali Temple as authorities carried out a major eviction drive, demolishing temporary huts and structures in Cherabanda Raju Colony. The anti-encroachment drive was undertaken as part of the temple expansion project to clear surrounding obstacles for widening the Mada Veedhulu (sacred circumambulation streets).
Tensions flared during the exercise when several residents attempted to obstruct government officials and municipal staff from executing the demolitions. Local officials noted that out of 70 to 80 illegal structures in the area, a majority of residents had previously surrendered their land voluntarily to support the shrine’s development. As compensation and rehabilitation, eligible residents were provided temporary jobs at the Bhadrakali Temple three months ago, while others were allotted double-bedroom houses.
However, resistance mounted when a small group of residents who had refused to vacate their illegal structures confronted the authorities. Heated arguments broke out between the protesters and Inspector of Police Karunakar, creating a volatile situation at the site. To maintain law and order and prevent public gathering, former Warangal West MLA Dasyam Vinay Bhaskar was placed under house arrest following reports that he planned to extend support to the affected dwellers.
Police personnel intervened swiftly, detaining individuals who obstructed government officers from performing their official duties. The detained protesters were shifted to the Mattewada police station. Police personnel remain stationed in the area to prevent further unrest as the temple street expansion project continues.
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