Hyderabad: Sacred Heart Church in Lallaguda Faces Eviction Notice from Railways

*Hyderabad, November 17, 2024* – The Sacred Heart Church, a century-old spiritual landmark in South Lallaguda, Hyderabad, is at the center of a contentious eviction notice issued by the South Central Railway (SCR). The notice accuses the church of illegal encroachment on railway land and orders it to vacate the premises within a month.

The directive, issued under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act, 1971, warns of eviction proceedings and potential legal action if the church does not comply by December 12, 2024.

**A Historical Institution at Risk**
Built in 1927, the Sacred Heart Church has served as a spiritual anchor for the Catholic community in the Lallaguda area for nearly 100 years. It was constructed on railway land during the British era with documented permissions, according to community members, and is located in the SLGD Officers and Staff Colony.

The church, designed in the shape of a cross, was funded in part by a ₹1,000 donation from the Nizam of Hyderabad and has been an enduring symbol of faith and history. Over the years, it has undergone renovations, including the replacement of its roof in 2004, to maintain its functionality for the parishioners it serves.

**Community Pushback**
The eviction notice has sparked anger and disbelief among the Catholic community, who contend that the church’s establishment was legal and not an encroachment.

“This church is part of our heritage and was built with all necessary permissions. The notice seems arbitrary and unfair,” said Roydin Roach, a community representative. “We are exploring all legal options to challenge this directive.”

The parishioners argue that the church's historical significance and its role in serving the community should be considered before such drastic measures are enforced.

**Legal Implications and Wider Debate**
The case has also reignited discussions about the treatment of religious and historical structures on public land. Activists and local leaders are calling for a balanced approach that preserves heritage while addressing legal concerns.

The SCR has not yet issued a detailed response to the allegations of unfair targeting. For now, the Sacred Heart Church stands as a historical and spiritual landmark, its fate uncertain as the December deadline approaches.

Local residents and church authorities are rallying support to fight what they see as an unjustified eviction, with plans to seek intervention from higher authorities to safeguard the century-old institution.

“This church has been a cornerstone of our community for generations,” said a parishioner. “Its loss would not only be a blow to our faith but also to the history of Hyderabad.”