HYDERABAD: CPI National Secretary Narayana has expressed strong criticism towards the government’s intention to sell lands belonging to the University of Hyderabad (HCU). Speaking to the media in Delhi on Friday, he questioned whether the government would heed their advice on land matters, stating that while they would express their opinions, it was uncertain if the government would listen. He emphasised that political alliances and friendships are separate from the current HCU land issue, noting that in politics, there are no permanent friends or enemies.
Narayana highlighted that during Indira Gandhi’s tenure, lands were allocated to HCU, but as land values have risen, many have set their sights on these university lands. He recalled that during Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy’s tenure as Chief Minister, the management of Care Hospitals sought cooperation to establish a hospital on these lands.
However, they had made it clear at the time that these lands should be reserved for educational purposes.
He urged that the lands be utilised for the expansion of educational infrastructure, pointing out that while the population increases, land does not. Narayana insisted that government lands should not be sold and criticised the current administration for considering such sales, even if previous governments had done so. He demanded that the government reconsider its stance on the HCU lands and immediately announce that it will refrain from selling them.
Furthermore, Narayana stated that university lands should not be viewed as commercial commodities. He questioned whether they would remain silent if students were being harmed and lands were being sold. Commenting on the Wakf Bill, he expressed concern that its approval marked dark days for the secular system, accusing both houses of being bulldozed and questioning the value of the Constitution. He asserted that despite the bill’s passage in Parliament, their protests would continue outside.