It is up to us to ensure public spaces are protected

In Govandi and Mankhurd, residents have scant regard for Covid-19 guidelines and do not seem too bothered by the pandemic. Pic/Rajesh Gupta

The BMC issued a warning to a Samajwadi Party Legislator from the Govandi-Mankhurd area, cautioning him against using a library cum study centre, originally intended for underprivileged children in Shivaji Nagar, for political events and meetings. The BMC received complaints from locals, prompting them to address the issue.

The BMC had granted permission for the establishment of a library and study centre earlier this year. However, a complaint by a resident, along with attached photographs, showed that the premises were being used for political events. BMC officials deemed this objectionable and a violation of the terms and conditions of the permission granted.

This is a good move, and should be looked at in the overarching cause for concern of some public spaces being usurped for political events and gatherings. We see this happening very often in public maidans especially when Mumbai needs all the open space it can get.

Parties start by holding meetings in the space, soon you will see a shed in place, then posters crop up and a political party office or just a makeshift gathering place has encroached on the space. People are fearful of taking on local politicians, because of their muscle power or they simply do not know that this is misuse of the space, in some cases. Local vigilance is one factor, the BMC too needs to be vigilant, halting this in its tracks.

Complainants must remain anonymous if they so desire. This protection will ensure more people are confident enough to step forward. Once confirmed, and if the politician does not heed cautionary notices, then the place has to be taken back by the BMC, it is as simple as that and punitive action must be taken against those responsible for usurping the area. This is an important dimension in the fight to save our open spaces.