The Dahisar Assembly seat, a key constituency in Mumbai North Lok Sabha, is set for a fierce contest in the Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20, with results on November 23. Rapid urbanisation has amplified issues like basic amenities, transportation, and redevelopment, making these central to voters’ concerns. With approximately 2.8 lakh voters, Dahisar reflects a diverse demographic, including Maharashtrian, Gujarati, Marwadi, and North Indian communities, with Muslims and Christians making up 10.5 per cent. The main contenders in this constituency are sitting BJP MLA Manisha Chaudhary, aiming for a third term, and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Vinod Ghosalkar, a former MLA. Chaudhary unseated Ghosalkar in 2014 by 33,578 votes, and while she aims to maintain BJP control, Ghosalkar hopes to tap into what he calls the “anti-incumbency sentiment”. Local concerns, key issues The Dahisar constituency includes both old housing societies and extensive slums like Ganpati Patil Nagar near the mangroves. Residents, especially in congested areas, face challenges despite some relief from toll removal at the city’s western entry, which has led to increased traffic. The 2022 Metro arrival was positive, yet last-mile connectivity, unfinished redevelopment, and poor road conditions persist. Further complicating matters, the Airport Authority of India’s 2020 height restrictions stalled several housing projects, frustrating residents awaiting redevelopment. Environmental issues, such as mangrove destruction and encroachment, also remain points of public concern. The Dahisar constituency, created in 2008 post-delimitation, was initially dominated by Shiv Sena under Ghosalkar. However, BJP gained control when Chaudhary won in 2014 and retained her seat in 2019 against Congress’s Arun Sawant. The upcoming election could test this pattern, with Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP looking to tap into voter discontent. As the election nears, Dahisar voters will consider both local and broader issues. Chaudhary emphasises her development record and accessibility, stating, “My doors are always open, and I’m confident voters will support me for a third term.” Meanwhile, Ghosalkar, campaigning alongside local Congress leaders, pledges to combat “hooliganism and terrorism” and recalls his personal loss as a rallying point for safer governance: “If this could happen to my family, it could happen to anyone,” he shared with mid-day. Ghosalkar murder In February 2024, former Shiv Sena corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar son of Vinod was shot dead during a Facebook Live in Dahisar by Mauris Noronha, known locally as “Mauris Bhai.” Vinod Ghosalkar, Shiv Sena (UBT) What do you see as the primary issues facing the Dahisar constituency? And is there truly neglect, as you claimed in your campaign?Housing is a major issue in Mumbai and a critical concern here. Many redevelopment projects, both through the SRA (Slum Rehabilitation Authority) and private societies, have stalled. In our constituency alone, at least 19 private buildings have shut down due to halted redevelopment. Builders sign agreements but then leave projects incomplete, with no directives to restart the work. Whether the problem lies with the builder or the BMC, the result is the same: no progress, and residents are left in limbo. Housing is a deeply emotional issue that affects all. If the BMC grants permissions, they should also be responsible for oversight, enforcing timelines, and monitoring progress. They collect fees and permit builders, but when a builder fails to deliver, residents’ rights remain unprotected, and officials often side with builders. This issue has been neglected, but I intend to prioritise it. I am considering establishing an agency solely to hold builders accountable and ensure timely completion of redevelopment projects. This approach needs to change. What is your stance on redevelopment projects in your constituency, particularly SRA schemes? Do you believe the SRA is fulfilling its purpose? If not, what alternatives would you suggest?Not at all. The SRA has failed its purpose, becoming more of a ‘slum-making’ scheme than a redevelopment initiative. Housing quality is poor, with frequent issues like leaks, lack of parking, and no green spaces for children. We need SRA projects to be completed on time with higher standards. Another issue is that societies sign agreements with developers while the BMC collects development charges from citizens, yet when problems arise, authorities dismiss responsibility. This ‘not our problem’ attitude shows a troubling alliance between officials and developers, who often disregard public needs. For 40 years, many of Mumbai’s 19,000 buildings have fallen into disrepair, some even at risk of collapse. Simply adding skyscrapers without addressing these conditions fails to serve residents. A sound policy is essential. The Thackeray government introduced strong laws for redevelopment, but these must be enforced and publicised effectively. Leaders like Balasaheb Thackeray and Sharad Pawar envisioned a slum-free Mumbai, yet slums are increasing. Improving pedestrian walkways and footpaths is critical. Footpaths are occupied by hawkers. How will you address this?It’s time for concrete action. Despite high court directives to regulate street vendors, the BMC has struggled for 15–20 years. Why? The Central government has laws to support street vendors, but we still need a balance to ensure safe pedestrian pathways. The issue isn’t vendors trying to earn a living, but how many designated markets has the municipality built for them? In Dahisar, we don’t even have one. We need properly planned market spaces and licensed hawkers, yet illegal vendors continue growing. Authorities ignore the issue, even with clear court orders. It’s essential to support legitimate vendors, maintain clean spaces, and protect resources like mangroves. Unmonitored public spaces lead to encroachment. Workers in areas like the national park and railway slums have waited decades for housing, and even Supreme Court-backed rights are ignored. Why are rules different across BMC, MMRDA, and railways? These basic rights—food, clothing, shelter—are still unfulfilled. In your campaign, you emphasise controlling terrorism and hooliganism. Are these significant issues in Dahisar, and why make this a central focus?Yes, it’s deeply personal. I lost my son to hooliganism. My family—my son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren—suffered immensely. As former legislators, even we weren’t safe. Incidents like gunfire directed at homes are ignored by police, with no action or proper investigation. This isn’t just a Dahisar issue; it’s widespread. We sought justice through the courts, and my son’s case is now with the CBI. There’s a lack of accountability across police, municipal authorities, and ministers. Thoughtful policies are needed to tackle these issues with genuine commitment. You’ve called your opponent a “Silent MLA.” Can you explain?She is a woman and I don’t want to say much about her, she seems to be waiting for me to make a statement. They have harassed me in the past over the same issue and it is affected me personally. However, I will criticise her for neglecting developmental work. She’s been absent on development issues in our constituency. We began a swimming pool project in 2018 with Aaditya Thackeray. Later, without our involvement, she inaugurated it herself, claiming credit. I have a duty as the appointed caretaker, but when we tried to fulfill our role, we were slapped with a case. Is that fair? Unemployment is a national issue, but how significant is it here?This area was once a job hub, especially with industries like Mahindra & Mahindra, but rising land costs and taxes pushed companies out. Mahindra alone has reduced its workforce here by 75 per cent. Now, while education facilities are growing, commercial space is limited, and high rents make it tough for small businesses. MHADA colonies should have essential services like schools and police stations, yet they’re missing. Developing homes alone isn’t enough; families deserve proper amenities. With Shiv Sena now divided, how will you secure support across communities and alliances?Like in the 1985-86 elections, people here vote based on individual integrity, not divisive tactics. When BJP’s Gujarati lobby mobilised against me, local people, including Gujaratis, still trusted me. Today, people see the issues within BJP—questions around Sunil Rane’s removal, complaints about Manisha Tai, and Gopal Shetty’s sidelining. I’m confident this support will extend across all communities and parties.
13 November,2024 07:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghGeeta Jain, Independent Redevelopment of several buildings, chawls has been pending for years. Is there any strategy for it?The issue of redevelopment is majorly faced in cities like Mira Bhayandar as there is less margin and FSI. Dilapidated buildings that collapsed 12 to 15 years ago haven’t been redeveloped yet. I came to realise from the example of Thane, where they allot homes to everyone from slums to illegal chawls, that dilapidated buildings can be redeveloped through cluster development plans. However, my plan of redevelopment was refused by Narendra Mehta and his team in the civic corporation. But areas in Bhayandar East, Navghar and gaothans will need redevelopment in the coming years and my cluster development plan will pave the way for better homes with no cost. Can residents of Mira Bhayandar expect a better water supply?The city witnessed many protests over water supply. People still feel it is a ‘pyasa shahar’ (thirsty city). When I was mayor, we brought in the Surya scheme for 218 MLD. But the scheme required a huge network of water lines so when I became MLA, I came up with R516 crore aid for the work. The work was stalled for two years due to COVID but now it is almost done and residents will get almost double the water supply by March or April 2025. What about last-mile connectivity still being a problem?Metro work is going on to connect the city internally. We have got 100 buses but even those are not sufficient due to a massive increase in development. We have already asked for more buses. I do understand that auto-rickshaws are still necessary. Work on bridges and pothole-free cement concrete roads is also being carried out for better traffic management. What about complaints regarding high levels of dust and sound pollution?I had instructed the use of sprinklers for the Metro work pollution, but those proved insufficient. Once the Metro work is over, the problem will be solved. In addition, instructions are being given to builders and contractors to follow pollution control measures. But I will come up with a permanent solution soon. Is it possible to create more jobs in Mira Bhayandar?The new Development Plan (DP) is under process. In the DP, we will take care of sufficient spaces and reservations for colleges, schools, industries, the corporate sector and IT in the city. It will create more jobs and people would not need to travel so far for work.
13 November,2024 07:45 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentNarendra Mehta, BJP Do you have a plan to rid residents of their water woes?When I was in the government, we already sanctioned a plan for improved water supply to the city. Though it was supposed to be completed by 2021, the change in state government delayed it. But now it is on the fast track and within six months the water supply will be doubled and all areas in Mira Bhayandar will get 24-hour water supply. What is the redevelopment scenario in the city, especially for buildings in gaothans and those made in violation of rules?The buildings in other parts of the city have no issues with redevelopment except those built in the 1990s in Bhayandar East and in gaothans. Though the current MLA came up with a cluster development plan, it requires at least 10,000 sq m of area that includes almost 10 to 15 buildings. Even if one building opts out of the plan or a few residents have different demands, redevelopment cannot be possible. There are several buildings which had to be demolished as they were dilapidated and development couldn’t be possible in the last five to 10 years. We will come up with a plan to allow even one or two buildings to go for self-development or redevelopment. There will be an option of cluster also. Any plans for last-mile connectivity in Mira Bhayandar?The Metro route will be completed till Bhayandar by 2025. Until then, the route up to Kashimira will start within the next four months. The Coastal Road connecting Mumbai to Mira Bhayandar will come up within the next five years. It will solve most of the traffic issues. For last-mile connectivity, there are buses and 150 more electric buses will come soon. Auto-rickshaws will remain one of the options for commuters. The city is witnessing a large scale of construction, causing pollution issues. What is your plan to tackle this?At present, there are rules and regulations to curb pollution at project sites. Though there isn’t a roadmap as of now, we are working on it and will soon come up with one. Any plan for job creation at the local level?It is a part of my manifesto. Currently, 90 per cent of employed people of Mira Bhayandar travel to Mumbai for jobs. There is a salt pan land on the western side of Mira Road. Now the central government has come up with a policy to develop it. We asked minister Piyush Goyal to help us in acquiring at least 50 acres of the land so that we can invite multinational companies and corporates to start their establishments here.
13 November,2024 07:35 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentCitizens advised to take note and plan accordingly No parking zones: 1. S V S Road: From Baba Saheb Worlikar Chowk (Century Junction) to Hari Om junction2. Entire Keluskar Road South and Keluskar Road North, Shivaji Park, Dadar. 3. Entire M B Raut Marg, Shivaji Park Dadar.4. Pandurang Naik Marg (Road no 5) Shivaji Park, Dadar5. Dadasaheb Rege Marg, Shivaji Park, Dadar.6. Lt Dilip Gupte Marg -: From Shivaji Park Gate No. 4 to Shitaladevi road, Shivaji Park, Dadar.7. L J Road:- From Gadkari Junction, Dadar to Shobha Hotel, Mahim.8. N C Kelkar Road :- From Hanuman Temple Junction to Gadkari Junction, Shivaji park, Dadar.9. T H Kataria Road-: From Ganga Vihar Junction to Asawari Junction, Mahim.10. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road -: From Maheshwari Circle to Kohinoor Junction, Dadar (East).11. Tilak Road: From Kotwal Garden Circle, Dadar (West) to R A Kidwai road, Matunga (East).12. Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Road: From Sea Link Road to J K Kapur Chwak up to Bindu Madhav Thackeray Chowk.13. Thadani Road: From Poddar Hospital junction to Bindu Madhav Thackeray Chowk.14. Dr Annie Besant Road: From Poddar Hospital junction to Dr Narayan Hardikar Junction.15. Vehicular traffic from S V S Road Northbound-: From Siddhivinayak Junction to Yes Bank Junction will be diverted to Siddhivinayak Junction and vehicular traffic from S.V.S Road southbound will be diverted to Gokhale Road or N C Kelkar Road if necessary. The traffic department has issued parking spaces for the participants of the rally, they are as follows:1. Buses parking on the entire Senapati Bapat Marg, Mahim railway station up to Tilak Bridge2. Buses parking on the entire Reti Bandar, Mahim Junction.3. Buses parking on the entire Lady Jehangir Road, Ruia Junction up to Five Garden St. Joseph School, Matunga.4. Buses parking on the entire Nathalal Parikh road, St. Joseph school up to Khalsa College, Matunga.5. Buses parked on the entire R.A.K. 4 Road from Arora junction, Lijat papad junction up to AIDS hospital.6. Buses parking at Lodha PPL Parking, Senapati Bapat road Lower Parel. Cars parking at Kamgar Stadium (Senapati Bapat Marg) Elphinstone Cars parking at Kohinoor PPL parking, Shivaji Park, Dadar7. Cars parking at India Bull Finance Center PPL parking, Elphinstone,8. Cars parking at Raheja PPL Parking, Sudam Kalu Ahire Road, Worli.9. Buses parking at Pandurang Budhkar Marg from Glaxo Junction to Kurne Chowk.10. Cars parking at Pandurang Budhkar Marg From Glaxo Junction to Deepak Talkies Junction.11.Buses parking at Sudam Kalu Ahire Road (Doordarshan Lane)12. Cars parking at Narayan Hardikar Marg From Hardikar Junction to Sacred Heart High School.13. Buses parking at Sasmira Road (Worli Bus Depot area). No parking zones in Khar in the following areas On the 17th road: From Chitrakar Dhurandhar Marg Junction to South Avenue Junction for all types of vehicles. On the 18th Road: “No Parking” from Chitrakar Dhurandhar Marg Khar to Junction to South Avenue Junction for all types of vehicles. On the 19th Road: “No Parking” from Chitrakar Dhurandhar Marg Junction to South Avenue Junction for all types of vehicles. On the 20th Road: “No Parking” from Chitrakar Dhurandhar Marg Junction to South Avenue Junction for all types of vehicles.
13 November,2024 07:34 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentGlass Act A worker cleans the glass facade of a prominent building at Bandra Kurla Complex. Spirited colours of the city Dkrypt’s colourful mural adorns a wall in Lower Parel setting the tone for the Red Bull Dance Your Style word finale. PIC COURTESY/ INSTAGRAM It was at the finale week of the Red Bull Dance Your Style competition when street artist Dkrypt arrived with his paint for a fun surprise. “I was in Malaysia at the Graff for Nation event earlier this month when I was approached for the Red Bull artwork. We landed in Mumbai, and headed straight to the spot in Lower Parel. I started painting this mural in the run up to the final event and finished the wall in six to seven hours with my crewmate,” Dkrypt (inset) explained, adding, “The right side of the mural signifies the flow state that dancers attain when they’re in their zone. The left side of the mural in blue is a more geometric style to symbolise the techniques as well as structured methods and movements in dance.” A new flight plan An illustrated page of the book. Pic Courtesy/V Shubhalaxmi Humans are not the only ones with a penchant for new names; butterflies share this habit too. However, this resulted in environmentalist and ‘moth lady’ V Shubhalaxmi (below) and her Field Guide to Indian Moths facing a dilemma. “The names keep changing according to new research. Close to 50 species needed corrections,” she suggested. To keep readers updated with information, she launched a new volume of her book yesterday and will share an excel sheet of the updated information online. Head to @vshubhalaxmi on Instagram. Joyful creations A child paints a Christmas ornament A few kids from lesser privileged backgrounds in Ghatkopar attended a workshop organised by Gully Classes earlier this week, where they were taught to make Christmas-themed ornaments, paper and resin art “We wanted the children to use their Diwali holidays productively, keeping them engaged and encouraging creativity through group work,” shared Abdul Munaf, founder of Gully Classes. “The kids were excited to learn. We wish to teach them new techniques and activities soon” he added. Wonders in wood One of the prints by the artist. Pic COurtesy/ Soho House Mumbai Gurgaon-based anonymous artist Princess Pea will bring a new series of works titled Paracosm- Proposals for the Future to the Soho House Mumbai showcase at Art Mumbai, and open to public from November 15 to 17. The exhibit will display nine new design prints that are proposals for large sculptures. “I create these drawings as visions for the future,” said Princess Pea. The sculptures are carved from ankudu wood by traditional toy artists from Etikoppaka in Andhra Pradesh. “We are thrilled to support the work of an original artist,” said Kate Bryan, chief art director, Soho House. Spotting Art Deco Interactive slide used as part of the presentation. Pics COURTESY/ART DECO Mumbai To celebrate National Education Day, Art Deco Mumbai hosted a special programme for students in grades seven to 10 from Bai BS Bengallee Girls High School in Marine Lines. Held yesterday, the event featured an engaging presentation on Mumbai’s Art Deco architecture and heritage precincts. “We wanted to use relatable language and examples for their easy understanding such as Metro and Eros Cinema,” said (inset) Suhasini Krishnan, outreach and content head. The lecture introduced the students to the historical significance of Art Deco architecture and taught them key identifying features. “The children were excited to learn about this. Our aim is to make heritage and its knowledge accessible to students,” said founder Atul Kumar.
13 November,2024 07:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayThe war between Mahayuti and MVA over ‘unfulfilled’ pre-poll guarantees has intensified with senior BJP leaders from Telangana, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka claiming that they had evidence to prove how the people of three states were “cheated” by the Congress governments. BJP had invited Union Minister G Kishan Reddy (Telangana), Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje (Karnataka), and former Union Minister Anurag Thakur (HP) to share to counter the Congress CMs and DyCMs who had said that the BJP’s allegations were baseless. Shobha Karandlaje said the Congress’ five guarantees had led the state of Telangana to bankruptcy. “Earlier the Karnataka government had a debt of R46,000 crore. During the tenure of the Congress government, it has reached Rs 82,000 crore,” she said, alleging that the promises like free bus travel, free rice, and free electricity, Grihalakshmi schemes had turned out to be just empty declarations. Anurag Thakur, former union minister G Kishan Reddy dismissed Telangana Chief Revanth Reddy’s claims that he made during his Maharashtra campaign. “It has been 340 days since his government formed there. The Congress had given six guarantees before the elections but hasn’t kept any. Congress had promised to waive off farmers’ loans of up to two lakhs. However, not even 40 per cent of the farmers’ loans have been waived off yet. The promise to give Rs 15,000 per acre to the farmers has not been kept, and not even a single rupee was received through Mahalakshmi Yojana for women,” he said. Thakur said the Congress had falsely campaigned in the Lok Sabha elections by deceiving people with false promises. “. It promised to buy milk at a price of Rs 100/litre, but in vain. 23 lakh women were promised Rs 1,500 each, but not even 23 thousand women have received it yet,” said the MP, adding that free electricity up to 300 units was not provided, instead power tariff was hiked. Last week, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, his HP counterpart Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and Karnataka DyCM DK Shivkumar claimed to have dismissed the BJP campaign that the Congress would not fulfil promises made in Maharashtra because it had failed in the three states it had won by offering guarantees to the voters. The Congress leaders had invited BJP leaders to visit their state to know how they were doing in terms of providing guarantees.
13 November,2024 07:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Dharmendra JoreMira-Bhayandar, an extended part of Mumbai, will once again witness a triangular battle between the current MLA, and BJP and Congress candidates. The last time, despite strong BJP candidates, people voted for an independent. This time, with the Sena and NCP on Congress’s side, will the result be different, is the current discussion in the constituency. The city has always had water supply troubles. Though these have been resolved to some extent, the ever-expanding city’s need for water has risen exponentially. Many high-rise towers are already built on both sides of the under-construction Metro line, but there is the serious issue of redevelopment of old buildings, illegal chawls and gaothan areas too. Insufficient health and education facilities are other pressing concerns of citizens. They are also highly dependent on the railways to travel to workplaces. Last-mile connectivity, job creation, and pollution control still seem like distant dreams. Over the last 15 years, the Mira Bhayandar constituency has chosen different MLAs and different political parties at every election. In 2009, Gilbert Mendonca from the NCP won. In 2014, when the country witnessed a change in government, Mira Bhayandar chose a BJP candidate to represent them. In 2019, despite the BJP repeating its candidate, residents picked former mayor Geeta Jain who despite being a BJP member contested as an independent. Come 2024, the BJP has once again fielded Narendra Mehta. Geeta Jain is contesting as an independent and Congress has once again shown confidence in Muzaffar Hussain. Geeta Jain who started her campaign way before tickets were announced by political parties, said, “In 2019, when I was denied a ticket from BJP, I had decided to fight as an independent for the betterment of the city. People voted for me and I served them. After five years, the situation is the same again. It is the people who have given me a ticket as an independent (janta hi apaksha ko ticket deti hai) and now I am fighting on their behalf. I have full trust that the people will support me this time too. It was the same situation in 2019 and despite a division of votes, we had enough in our favour to get elected.” In 2019, despite the division of votes, Jain and Mehta were at number one and two as Shiv Sena was part of the alliance. In 2014, when Mehta got elected with a massive number of votes (91,468) the combined votes of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were around 97,000. This time NCP-SP and Sena-UBT are with Congress. So can the division of votes lead to different results? “I haven’t been dependent on the division of votes. People have seen 65 years of my family and 40 years of me staying in Mira Road and me within the political sphere. I have my own vote bank. People are fed up with the 10 years of misgovernance. The other two candidates are not only defaming each other but they are also defaming my beloved city. I don’t want such mudslinging in my city. The city has 100 per cent literacy rate and 100 per cent employment/self-employment rate. This city won’t accept polarisation, or mudslinging at all. So for water, transportation, education, health and for a better life, people should vote for the Congress,” said Muzaffar Hussain. Meanwhile, Narendra Mehta said, “There isn’t a single NCP corporator and hardly three Sena (UBT) corporators. Even if these 30,000 Sena voters shift sides, we have enough BJP votes to win. Congress only depends on minority votes. Last time, there were wrong narratives. This time, voters know that BJP supported me and we will win by a huge margin.”
13 November,2024 07:24 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentA woman deputy engineer working at MHADA fell victim to cyber fraud and lost Rs 3 lakh as part of “fake investigation”. According to police sources, the victim, a resident of Sion, received a call while at work on Friday (November 8). The fraudsters initially posed as representatives from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The caller informed the woman, 41, that a new SIM card had been issued using her Aadhaar details, which are allegedly being used to send obscene messages nationwide. Threatening to block her number, the fraudsters claimed a cybercrime investigation had been launched based on several complaints and then transferred the call to an alleged cybercrime officer. The supposed cyber officer, identifying himself with a Maharashtra Cyber Police batch number (MCB: 32569), then contacted the victim on WhatsApp video call, making a digital arrest. He instructed her not to move or answer any other calls during the investigation. The supposed officer then asserted that they had been working on a Rs 300 crore money laundering case involving a woman named Pooja Mhatre. He told the victim that her bank account was linked to transactions worth Rs 26.28 lakh that occurred years ago. The fraudster then sent her a suspicious link—https://mumbalpolicegovin.ougd.top/app/—and instructed her to enter details under “MSVA 0710.” Upon entering information, the woman was shocked to see her name and photo listed among the accused persons, alongside images and details of others. Claiming that she would be arrested unless she fully cooperated, the fraudsters then demanded her bank account details and instructed her to transfer funds to an “RBI-linked account”, promising she would get her money back within a week post-verification. Under pressure and fearing arrest, the victim transferred Rs 3 lakh through various transactions to the UPI number. Realising that she had been duped, the woman approached the Kherwadi police station and filed a complaint. “We have registered a case under sections 308, 319(2), 336(3), 340(2), 3(5), and sections 66(C) and 66(D) of the IT Act against unknown persons. Further investigation is underway,” said a police officer. The officer further urged the public to remain vigilant against cyber fraud and alleged ‘digital arrests’. “Do not engage with such calls, as the police do not conduct investigations through video calls,” the officer said, adding that one must report suspicious calls immediately by calling cyber helpline number 1930.
13 November,2024 07:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanThe Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), part of the incumbent Mahayuti alliance, has a new narrative just days before Maharashtra goes to the polls on November 20. It’s called ‘vote jihad’, and the mainstreaming began with the release of a report last week at a Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) seminar titled ‘Illegal Immigrants to Mumbai: Analysing Socio-economic and Political Consequences’. City BJP leader Kirit Somaiya spotlighted the report at a November 9 press conference saying it is a larger ‘vote jihad’ conspiracy to garner minority votes. The next day, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed the ‘vote jihad’ in an election rally at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad). Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. Pics/Shadab Khan “Vote jihad should be countered with a vote dharma yuddh,” he said at the rally. Fadnavis alleged that the Maha Vikas Aghadi or MVA (Congress, Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, NCP Sharadchandra Pawar) have exploited minority votes to win past elections. “We were not awake then,” he said. “We are awake now.” In a reference to Aurangabad’s name change (the city was named after erstwhile Mughal ruler Aurangzeb), he added, “No one will dare to change the name back.” This sudden shift in rhetoric redirected the Mahayuti’s campaign focus from ‘Ladki Bahin’ (Dear Sister) and other welfare schemes to a Hindutva-centred appeal. Consequently, the political landscape in Maharashtra has intensified this week, inviting opposition counterpoints saying BJP’s poll plank is divisive and contrary to electoral codes. On Monday, for instance, AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi said, “When they don’t get votes, they resort to jihad.” Fadnavis on his part doubled down, countering, “They are descendants of Razakars who tortured the people of Marathwada, looted their land, and destroyed hundreds of families.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah added to the BJP’s poll position this week by saying his party will bring an anti-conversion law into effect if voted into power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his election rallies in Maharashtra coined “Ek Hain to Safe Hain” (We are safe if we are one), a slogan he is expected to repeat in his Mumbai rally on Thursday. To be sure, ‘vote jihad’ is not a new slogan. It had previously featured in an October rally by Fadnavis where he attributed BJP’s underperformance in certain Lok Sabha constituencies to this alleged phenomenon. Speaking in Kolhapur last month, he stated, “In 14 out of 48 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra, ‘vote jihad’ was a factor. Hindutva thought needs to awaken if anti-Hindu leaders are being elected to top positions.” Shiv Sena UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray. PIC/KIRTI SURVE PARADE Later, on November 5, TISS hosted a national seminar at its Deonar campus to discuss the above-mentioned report’s findings, bringing together academics, policymakers, government officials, and experts from across India. According to the institute, the seminar facilitated in-depth discussions on socio-economic issues, healthcare, and the political impact of illegal immigration in Mumbai. Professor Shantishree Dhulipudi Pandit, vice-chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, was the chief guest and keynote speaker, while Sukh Ram Meena, former director general in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, was the guest of honour. Professor Shankar Das, pro vice-chancellor of TISS and principal investigator of the study, along with assistant professor Souvik Mondal, the co-principal Investigator, presented the report. Das highlighted a significant gap in understanding the real-time impact of illegal immigration on Mumbai’s socio-economic and urban landscape. He stressed the need for comprehensive policy responses that address these complexities while ensuring stability and security. “Mumbai’s population and resource challenges are only part of the story,” he said. “We need a deeper understanding of how illegal immigration affects employment, access to services, and the socio-political environment.” Mondal provided insights into the research methodology, emphasising the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to tackle issues like cultural displacement, rising crime, housing shortages, healthcare strain, and risks of “radicalisation.” Speaking with mid-day, Prof Mondal said the six-month study involved a sample size of 3,000 individuals, with findings based on both primary and secondary data. “This study is rooted in extensive literature review and a systematic approach to understand the gaps in existing research,” he said. BJP leaders, including Fadnavis and Somaiya, have since been using the report as validation of their allegations of ‘vote jihad’. Former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya. PICS/SAYYED SAMEER ABEDI Shiv Sena UBT leader and Worli candidate Aaditya Thackeray responded critically, questioning the Union government’s role in border security and the infusion of illegal immigrants into the country. “The Home Minister must answer how illegal immigrants manage to enter the country and travel to Mumbai from Bangladesh,” he said in an interview to PTI, and also challenged the timing of the report. Mondal told mid-day that the pathways of immigration from Bangladesh and Myanmar through eastern states to Mumbai can be perplexing since “Mumbai has no direct border with any neighbouring country, yet immigrants keep arriving here.” He said most survey respondents shared that their first residences in India were in states such as West Bengal, Assam, Jharkhand, and Bihar, before migrating to Mumbai. When asked about the report’s political reception, Mondal said, “This report serves an academic purpose. The larger goal is to encourage informed dialogue and shape policies that foster socio-economic harmony.” An NCP leader from the Ajit Pawar faction (part of the Mahayuti alliance) told mid-day, “We don’t endorse the ‘Vote Jihad’ and ‘Batenge to Katenge’ narrative. Many of our candidates are Muslims, and such rhetoric will only create a divide among Maharashtrian Muslims and spread unwarranted tension.” Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on the other hand, joined the nationwide BJP mainstreaming of the party’s latest rhetoric. In a rally in Achalpur in Maharashtra on Tuesday, he said, “Maharashtra could become a base for love jihad and land jihad. The state should not become a laboratory for such practices.” He said the MVA fostered division and “created an environment that could threaten the safety and security of the state’s citizens.” Speaking with mid-day, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare said, “What’s happening in Maharashtra’s political scene is BJP’s same old divisive politics, combined with Devendra Fadnavis’s extreme negativity. They seem to be getting feedback that their hollow welfare schemes and political sops like Ladki Bahin have failed to impress the people of Maharashtra. It was evident to me in every part of the state I visited and every person I met. In my opinion, they’ve realised they are losing in many seats, which is why they’ve started pushing this ‘vote jihad’ and ‘batenge-katenge’ narrative.” Congress leader Sachin Sawant remarked, “This is typical of BJP leaders during election season. When all else fails and they’re facing the prospect of a miserable loss, they resort to narratives like ‘Vote-Jihad,’ ‘Ek hai toh safe hai,’ and ‘Katenge to Batenge.’ This is just another attempt to polarise votes.” BJP’s Somaiya said the TISS report “clearly states that Hindu population in Mumbai will decrease by 54% by 2051, while the number of Bangladeshis and Rohingyas is increasing.” He added, quoting the report, “The Hindu population in Mumbai was 88% in 1961, which declined to 66% in 2011. At the same time, the Muslim population saw an increase from 8% in 1961 to 21% in 2011. Today, at places like Govandi, Mankhurd, Mumbra, Mumbadevi, Naya Nagar, Bhiwandi, etc, there is a huge population of Bangladeshi migrants and Rohingya Muslims. Hence, (Congress leader) Rahul Gandhi wants Vote Jihad, while Yogi says Batenge to Katenge and and Modi ji says Ek hain toh safe hain.” A Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) leader told mid-day, “We are focusing on promoting our work and public welfare schemes, as we have a solid report card to present. The issues of ‘vote-jihad’ or ‘batenge katenge’ are being raised by the BJP, and we have chosen to stay away from them for now. This is not our issue.” State BJP chief spokesperson Keshav Upadhye told mid-day, “It’s not us, but the Congress and MVA alliance who resort to vote polarisation and divisive politics. We’re simply following the slogan Modiji has given us, ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’ As for ‘Vote Jihad,’ we’re merely pointing to what we witnessed as recently as the 2024 Lok Sabha election. In Malegaon, we saw a clear case of one-sided voting. The BJP was ahead by 1.90 lakh votes in Dhule, but in the Malegaon assembly segment, there were 1.94 lakh votes that shifted the result. We lost by just 4,000 votes. This ‘Vote Jihad’ was the reason for our defeat there, not because we weren’t united. The Opposition claims we’re trying to polarise votes on religious grounds, but in reality, it’s the MVA who resort to such tactics.” What is the TISS report about? A newly released report from the TISS Mumbai highlights the profound impact of illegal immigration on Mumbai’s socio-economic landscape. The report, titled Illegal Immigrants to Mumbai: Analysing Socio-economic and Political Consequences, talks about the “challenges posed by the growing population of Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants in the city.” Researchers warn of potential consequences for infrastructure, public services, and local employment, and suggest stricter immigration controls to manage the strain on the city’s resources.
13 November,2024 07:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghBombay High Court on Tuesday voiced strong dissatisfaction over the handling of illegal hawkers in Mumbai. Citing mid-day’s report, ‘This Borivli hawker market has killed several BEST services’, the court addressed a suo motu PIL on the issue. An advocate representing the bar council presented the report in court, prompting the judges to discuss the gravity of the situation. Several licenced hawkers and hawker unions have intervened in the PIL, raising concerns about their rights being infringed. An advocate for a group of licenced hawkers stated, “Whenever the court passes an order, the civic body sweeps away all hawkers, licenced or not.” In response, the division bench of Justice A S Gadkari and Justice Kamal Khata clarified, “We are not concerned with licenced hawkers—they have the legal right to vend goods. Our focus is on illegal hawkers. How is it determined whether a hawker is licenced?” The advocates representing various hawker groups explained that there are three types of hawkers: those with vending certificates (licenced), those without certificates (illegal), and a third category of hawkers who are recognised in surveys but have not been issued certificates. The third group, they said, is most affected and often has to prove their recognised status predating the Street Vending Act (SVA). After hearing these arguments, the bench directed all parties to compile a list of licenced hawkers to form an interim Town Vending Committee (TVC), which will conduct a new survey and later hold elections to constitute the TVC. The previous TVC election results were not released due to a Supreme Court stay following multiple petitions alleging incomplete voter lists. While presenting the mid-day report, the bar council advocate argued, “This report shows the impact of hawkers blocking roads. This location, Borivli West, is listed as one of the locations that are constantly monitored by the BMC, yet hawkers occupy the entire road.” The BMC counsel explained the civic body’s challenges, noting, “We continuously remove hawkers, but the police need to ensure they don’t return.” Citing a prior court order, the BMC’s counsel pointed out that the police are responsible for preventing evicted hawkers from coming back. In response, the state representative said, “One of our main concerns is the formation of the TVC to regulate illegal hawking. We provide police protection whenever requested by the BMC, with vans and officers stationed to prevent hawkers from returning.” Commenting on an earlier pilot project, a senior counsel for the state noted, “As far as I am aware, there are no hawkers between CST and the high court.” Justice Khata expressed frustration, saying, “It’s not enough to say that police are protecting BMC officers. Beat marshals must be present to prevent hawkers from returning once removed. If BMC is doing its job, there is clearly an issue on your end.” He continued, “When officers arrive, they should ask for licences. If none are shown, action must be taken, and BMC should remove the goods. Despite claims that beat marshals and vans are stationed, hawkers still return after BMC takes action.” Criticising the state further, he added, “You are permitting hawkers yet failing to control the situation. Earlier, we instructed the use of reserved police forces to avoid manpower issues. Hawkers are overwhelming the city; no street, shop, or shopping area is hawker-free.” The bar council’s senior counsel pointed out that the Municipal Act and Police Act authorise police and BMC to remove hawkers. He criticised the BMC’s inspection reports, saying, “These aren’t even licences but inspection reports. Every licence shown in the report has expired.” Justice Khata remarked, “Unfortunately, judges also travel. We see the situation firsthand. You claim measures are in place, yet hawkers return and operate in the presence of state-assigned beat marshals and police vans.” The bench concluded by observing, “The Street Vendors Act has come into effect but has not been effectively implemented.” Netizens react Netizens on X expressed dissatisfaction with authorities, reacting to the mid-day report Malhar @ BackchodGPT, “I have never dared to enter this lane in my car during the day. It’s only drivable late at night.” Fashionista @IndianDamsel, “All parties are to blame—sellers, buyers & authorities. Pre-election cleanup happens, but it’ll worsen post Nov 24! Strict, permanent action needed!” Nilesh Saiya @nksaiya, “We pay BMC property tax, income tax, GST, entertainment tax, and all other taxes for this?” Many other users pointed out similar issues across Mumbai and the MMR region, expressing frustration with the situation.
13 November,2024 06:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Prasun ChoudhariDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for November 13. Aries March 21 – April 20Work according to priority as multi-tasking creates more delays and confusion. A friend from whom you had created a distance- calls.Cosmic tip: Be aware of feelings and what intuition says or warns you about. Taurus April 21 – May 20Study investment opportunities before investing money. Being roped in to conduct a seminar is a big compliment. Cosmic tip: Don’t get involved in time consuming arguments which don’t go anywhere or solve anything. GeminiMay 21 – June 21An initial meeting with a potential client goes surprisingly well. Singles enter the marriage dasha. Work on improving communication in personal and professional life.Cosmic tip: Update methods of working that bring positive results. Cancer June 22 – July 23Paying attention to equation with colleagues, especially those you don’t like is a lesson in psychology and how the mind works. Cosmic tip: Keep in mind that less is more where words are concerned. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Life is good, though in many ways this is a day of endings and new beginnings which you remember all your life.Cosmic tip: Drive carefully. Reach the station/ airport in time if travelling. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Handling restrictive circumstances carefully, not over stepping boundaries helps have some control over a situation. Regularly eat home cooked food.Cosmic tip: Make sure reactions aren’t contrary to the kind of personality you have. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Consciously try to break away from negative family patterns to live in an aura of peace and serenity. Take care of health.Cosmic tip: Make a relationship decision after considering all angles and long-term outcomes. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Making an effort to re-connect with your partner can revive fires of love and desire once more. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Use precious time in more meaningful ways. Don’t dwell on unimportant issues. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Dedication and hard work show results with a raise in salary or promotion. Problems can be impetus for change and growth.Cosmic tip: Be practical and efficient when dealing with an uncommon problem at work. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Wanting to be in control at all times could work against you as vibes are of someone stubborn and set in views. Cosmic tip: Flow gracefully in this different kind of a karmic cycle. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19A change of approach towards colleagues leads to a more harmonious work environment. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Don’t give in to popular opinion. Stay with what is ethically right according to you. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20It’s not a good idea to get into a relationship when already committed to someone. Don’t complicate life any more. Be aware.Cosmic tip: Don’t be so diplomatic that it works to your disadvantage.
13 November,2024 02:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseADVERTISEMENT
