HYDERABAD: IAS officer Smita Sabharwal has cooperated fully with the police and given a detailed statement as a citizen in connection with an AI-generated image she shared on social media, which relates to the controversial Kanchagachibowli land issue near Hyderabad Central University.
In a public statement, Sabharwal noted that the post in question had been shared by nearly 2,000 others and questioned whether equal action had been taken against all of them. She suggested that selective enforcement raises questions about natural justice and the principle of equality under the law.
The Gachibowli Police issued a notice to Sabharwal under Section 179 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which empowers authorities to summon individuals for testimony during investigations. Police said the image she posted could fall under the category of spreading misinformation, prompting them to initiate an inquiry.
The image in question, posted on 31 March, was in a “Ghibli-style” animation and depicted earthmovers, deer, and peacocks — intended as a critique of the environmental impact of ongoing land development. Sabharwal, currently serving as the Principal Secretary of Telangana’s Department of Tourism, Culture, and Youth Advancement, shared the image amid growing controversy over the government’s urban infrastructure and IT park development plans on the 400-acre Kanchagachibowli site.
Environmental activists and students have opposed the project, citing ecological concerns. The matter is currently being heard in both the Telangana High Court and the Supreme Court.
Police sources indicated that they may contact Sabharwal again to gather further information. They emphasised that proceedings are ongoing in accordance with the law.
