‘Operation Chabutra’ sparks debate over safety and freedom on Hyderabad streets

‘Operation Chabutra’ sparks debate over safety and freedom on Hyderabad streets

A late-night policing drive targeting groups ‘loitering’ on city roads has triggered a split in public opinion, with residents and netizens sharply divided over whether it enhances safety or encroaches on personal freedom.

The initiative titled Operation Chabutra is being carried out across Hyderabad, particularly in the south and Old City areas, where police say complaints of harassment, intimidation and petty crime tend to surface after midnight. Teams patrol identified stretches, questioning those found sitting on roadside platforms, street corners and relatively isolated locations.

Police officials maintain that the operation is aimed at deterrence rather than indiscriminate action. DCP, Golconda Zone, G. Chandra Mohan said the questioning is based on behaviour rather than mere presence. “The motive behind the questioning is that whoever is loitering on streets, or sitting in isolated places, will be pulled up, not all. When some are found catcalling couples, women, and indulging in extortion, we counsel them in front of their parents or elders. If they are involved in crime against women, teasing, or property offence, that will be a case. Minor scuffle will be dealt with counselling,” he said.

An officer from the Charminar zone said the timing and approach are calibrated based on past incidents. “The operation usually starts after midnight. If found roaming without a purpose, we cross check them once, but roaming after 1 a.m. is dealt with strictly. Recently, there were incidents of a couple being assaulted, and a delivery boy robbed. The South and South-West range get more of such cases.”

He added that the drive is intended to remain largely non-confrontational. “It is a peaceful operation, mostly counselling. There is a misconception of using lathi by police. That happens in isolated cases when a group tries to escape or evade questions. If there is a complaint about it, we will surely take action.”

The term ‘chabutra’ itself reflects a long-standing social culture in parts of the Old City, where residents, particularly youth, gather on raised platforms or ‘arugu’ during summer nights.