In a video that has surfaced online, the Hyderabad Police are seen threatening traders in the Old City with lathi-charge if they operate beyond 11 pm. The video, which has caused a stir, shows a police officer making the rounds in Bahadurpura, emphatically stating, “11 ke baad idhar dikhna achha nahi. Agar dikhey toh maar khatey. Lathicharge kardetey. No friendly police. Lathicharge police. Theek hai? 11 ke baad no open. (Don’t be outside in this area post 11 pm. If you are spotted, you will be thrashed, lathi-charged).”
The footage depicts a police vehicle stopping by the side of the road, with officers urging traders to shut down their businesses for the night. This stern warning contrasts sharply with the Telangana police’s image as “People-friendly police,” a title often highlighted by their caller tune.
The police have reportedly been patrolling the Old City regularly, making such announcements and occasionally resorting to force against large gatherings or conducting raids on hotels operating past the curfew.
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Reacting to the video, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the legality and fairness of such actions. Taking to social media platform X, Owaisi directed his queries to the Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) and the Hyderabad Commissioner of Police, asking whether similar announcements would be made in areas like Jubilee Hills.
“@TelanganaDGP @CPHydCity could such an announcement be made by police in Jubilee Hills? Whether they are Irani chai hotels or pan shops or commercial establishments, they should be allowed to remain open till 12 am at least. In any case, there should be a uniform policy across the board. Big metros across the country allow shops to be open in the night. There’s already an economic downturn. Why is it different in Hyderabad?” Owaisi posted.
Owaisi’s remarks highlight concerns over the economic impact of such stringent measures and call for a consistent policy that aligns with practices in other major cities across India. As Hyderabad grapples with an economic downturn, the enforcement of an 11 pm curfew on businesses in the Old City raises questions about balancing public order with economic vitality.
The incident has sparked a debate about the role of law enforcement and the need for a uniform policy that supports businesses while ensuring public safety. Traders and residents alike await a response from the authorities regarding this contentious issue.
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