Article Today, New Delhi:
India has emerged as one of the largest foreign markets for real estate projects associated with the Trump brand. With two ongoing luxury developments in Gurugram under the Trump Organisation’s name, attention has now shifted to Hyderabad, where the announcement of the prestigious Trump Towers in Kokapet has sparked both excitement and concern across the real estate sector. Developers claim the project, estimated at Rs. 3,500 crore, will comprise 63 floors of ultra-luxury residences, marking one of the tallest and most expensive constructions in the country.
Rising Brand, Deepening Concerns
While the Trump Organisation’s expansion signals growing American influence in Indian real estate, the move has also reignited debates on the integrity of its local partners. Several Indian developers associated with Trump-branded projects have faced allegations of money laundering, tax evasion, and consumer fraud. These charges, though not directly linked to the Trump Organisation, highlight systemic irregularities that continue to plague India’s real estate industry. Consequently, questions are being raised over the brand’s due diligence and its choice of business allies.
Hyderabad’s ‘Golden Mile’ Faces Legal Hurdles
The Kokapet area, often described as Hyderabad’s “Golden Mile,” has become a hotspot for premium residential projects. The proposed Trump Towers, covering about four acres and expected to house nearly 400 apartments, are projected to start at Rs. 4 crore per unit. However, the project has already encountered legal complications. A landowner has issued a public notice alleging that consent for development was not granted and that the land transaction itself may be fraudulent. Such disputes risk delaying construction and unsettling potential investors, raising doubts over the project’s long-term stability.
Regulatory Oversight and Weak Enforcement
India’s real estate sector has long struggled with issues of transparency and accountability. Although the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, or RERA, was introduced to protect buyers and streamline project approvals, enforcement remains inconsistent. Weak regulatory mechanisms have allowed dubious practices to persist, leaving homebuyers vulnerable to fraud and financial losses.
The Need for Stronger Governance
As global brands such as Trump enter the Indian market, experts argue that the government must intensify scrutiny of partnerships and enforce compliance with real estate regulations. Without stringent oversight, foreign collaborations may inadvertently legitimise questionable practices within the domestic market. In the long term, the credibility of India’s real estate ecosystem could be at risk.
Investor Vigilance Essential
Despite the allure of high-end global projects, industry analysts advise potential buyers to exercise caution. With frequent disputes over land titles and delayed approvals, luxury investments may not always guarantee security. As the Trump Towers project in Hyderabad unfolds, it stands as both a symbol of India’s growing real estate ambition and a reminder of the sector’s enduring vulnerabilities.
