Ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly election beginning November 20, police officers and security personnel across Mumbai have been asked to remain present for the duty without fail. Officials aware of the matter said that anyone who remains absent from their duties for extended periods, whether due to illness or other genuine reasons, should be prepared for strict departmental action, with some potentially facing suspension. Officials said that a special police force is essential to maintain smooth operations, particularly during the city’s election period. Mumbai police stations are already operating with a reduced workforce, necessitating additional forces from outside. It has been observed that many officers and personnel remain absent for extended periods, often citing various reasons, which consistently results in shortages of staff and impacts effective arrangements. “Over 200 police personnel assigned to various police stations across Mumbai are currently on leave for various reasons, including some who have not reported for duty in over a month. We have sent notices to them to report back immediately,” said a police officer on condition of anonymity. A similar situation occurred during the Lok Sabha elections. “We are once again facing these issues during the Assembly elections,” added the officer. Joint Commissioner of Police (Admin) S Jaykumar said that the department has sent notices to police officers and personnel who have remained absent from their duties. So far, around 70 police personnel have rejoined, however, many still remain on leave. “We have sent notices to around 200 police personnel, out of which 70 have rejoined their duties recently, and we hope the remaining would rejoin soon, otherwise, they would face departmental inquiry and action,” said Joint Commissioner of Police (Admin) S Jaykumar. In the past as well, action was taken against police personnel who remained absent for a long period without valid reasons, with their salaries being stopped. However, after their cases were reviewed, the reasons for their absence—serious illness or other legitimate causes—were uncovered through a departmental inquiry, following which their salaries were subsequently restored. It has, however, been observed that despite departmental inquiries and actions, some police personnel are still not addressing the matter seriously. As a result, higher authorities have now decided to enforce stricter measures by suspending those involved, said the officer.
08 November,2024 11:24 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been considering handing over the management of all 13 swimming pools to private entities under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, citing financial losses in running these facilities in Mumbai. However, pool members and some insiders within the BMC argued that this move was a deliberate attempt to cover up administrative failures. mid-day investigated the matter and learnt that the gymnasiums—one each at Kandivli West and Dahisar East swimming facilities—have been lying dysfunctional since inception. Unused gym machines at the Dahisar facility “All the expensive machines at these gymnasiums are gathering dust because the head office is not at all bothered to start these gyms,” said an insider in the BMC. Kandivli “Kandivli swimming pool was inaugurated on March 1, 2022. If the officials did not want to start the gymnasium, why did they invest so much money in purchasing the machines? Today the swimming pools are running under loss and they are planning to give these facilities into the hands of private players. If it goes under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, they will surely start the gym to make good profit,” said a civic official requesting anonymity. “Why the senior babus are not working on starting canteen facilities at swimming pools? All the swimming pools have a huge space where counters can be made to sell swimming gears, the space can be used for pay and park use, etc. But these babus are only interested in showing a deficit between the expenditure incurred and the revenue received from the members,” said the official. Another BMC insider said, “Initially, contractors were brought in to manage the swimming facilities in Mumbai, but there has been a lack of proper supervision over their operations. Furthermore, all their bills are promptly cleared by the BMC without proper verification, bypassing the necessary checks to ensure whether the payments should be approved or held for further scrutiny.” Wadala Wadala swimming pool has been lying shut since July 10 for maintenance. “The members of Wadala swimming pool were informed that the facility will be shut for 10 days for maintenance work, but it is yet to be restarted. The members have been coming almost every alternate day to ask when it will be resumed, but the authorities have no clear reply as none of them are aware of any development,” said a member of Wadala swimming pool requesting anonymity. Dadar The members at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Olympic Swimming Pool, Dadar have been fuming over pools going under the PPP model and said that these facilities are for recreational purposes and not a profit-making business. “The membership fees will skyrocket if these pools are sent to private entities to run. How will the common man think of taking a membership?” said Jitendra Singh, an old member at Dadar facility. Meanwhile, another member Hemangini Panchal said, “The management is extremely pathetic as they have charged us for a smart card to access the swimming pool but no smart card has been given to us. Plus, despite strong resistance and uproar from members, granite tiles were fixed near the pool. These granite tiles are slippery and after accidents, they will be bound to change it to make the floor anti-skid. So, naturally, if the revenue is wasted like this, the operation cost will be higher.” When contacted, the civic coordinator at the pools in Mumbai, Sandeep Vaishampayan, said, “I am not aware if the pools are going under the PPP model.” However, the Deputy Municipal Commissioner Chanda Jadhav said, “I have recently taken over the charge of this office. My predecessor had conducted some meetings regarding pools going under the PPP model but I am yet to review the meetings.” When asked about why the gyms are not functional at Dahisar and Kandivli swimming pools, and when Wadala pool will be started, Jadhav said, “I will look into the matter and let you know.”
08 November,2024 11:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Diwakar SharmaCongestion, lack of connectivity, overcrowding, narrow roads, rising dust and pollution, incomplete infrastructure upgrades, and unfinished redevelopment projects—the Kurla Assembly constituency is a crucible of chaos, blending old and new. It is one of the six Assembly segments of the Mumbai North Central Parliamentary seat and comprises two civic wards, L and M, including areas like Kurla East and West, Chunabhatti, Tilak Nagar and parts of Chembur. The constituency has around 2,97,000 voters, with the main contest this time between two Shiv Sainiks: two-time sitting Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Mangesh Kudalkar from Shinde Sena (Shiv Sena) and former corporator Pravina Morajkar from Uddhav Sena (Shiv Sena-UBT). Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Pravina Morajkar during her campaign; (right) Shinde Sena candidate Mangesh Kudalkar. Pics/Rajesh Gupta One of the constituency's key issues is overcrowding amid inadequate infrastructure. Multiple towers are coming up, and with a growing population, the area faces increased strain without a parallel expansion of civic amenities, leading to narrow roads, congestion, and connectivity issues. Recently, one of the pressing concerns raised by Kurla East residents has been the government’s plan to relocate Dharavi’s project-affected people to an empty plot in Kurla East, sparking local ire. Shiv Sena's Kudalkar has represented the constituency for the last two terms. Residents have also started a citizens’ movement, termed ‘Lok Chalwal,’ aiming to preserve the old Kurla government milk dairy land for a garden and recreation ground to maintain greenery and open space. mid-day first reported on the Kurla residents’ movement for green space in February 2024. The 10.4-hectare land, formerly used by the government milk dairy at Nehru Nagar Kurla, has been lying unused since the dairy shut down nearly a decade ago. Strategically located along the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road, LTT Kurla Terminus, Mumbai Metro Yellow Line 2B, and the harbour line of the suburban railway, the land was initially earmarked by MMRDA for a mixed-use development plan similar to BKC, but plans shifted to using it for Dharavi rehabilitation. “One of the main issues in areas like Chembur and Pestom Sagar is high pollution, an age-old problem that needs immediate attention. Politicians should tackle such issues proactively instead of waiting for complaints—it affects everyone,” said Rajan Shewar, a Chembur resident. In areas like Tilak Nagar and Sahakar Nagar, small buildings are transforming into high-rise towers, creating a nearly new township and straining civic amenities. “This was a large colony for a limited population. Now, the same number of buildings has turned into towers, tripling the population and visibly adding pressure,” said resident Ranjan Sudam Jadhav. Slum dwellers and those living in hillside areas like Qureshi Nagar, Kasaiwada and Alidada Estate—older slum pockets now under SRA projects—report a need for better connectivity. “Our small houses have become big towers, but there’s no connectivity here. We need autos and buses,” said Mohammad Ansari, another resident. Kurla has a growing issue of insufficient civic infrastructure and amenities. The lack of these amenities is also leading to safety issues. What do you have to say about it?Yes, Kurla is in disarray. New colonies have been built, but there are no amenities and no streetlights, leading to safety issues for women. In many places, there aren’t even proper roads. It’s a dire situation. What are the local issues you would prioritise?I was the corporator for this area and also chaired the civic health committee. Many issues have remained unresolved for years. The sitting MLA has served two terms but hasn’t fully addressed these problems. I want to bring about real change and solve people’s problems. There is increasing congestion, and many local issues need attention.Yes, many issues affecting poorer residents remain incomplete. Take Thakkar Bappa Colony, for example. It’s a colony of leather workers located near the Eastern Express Highway. If you visit, you’ll see the terrible conditions—no roads, no upgrades, no infrastructure. Many residents have contracted diseases like tuberculosis due to the poor conditions. The area has become unlivable. Recently, the chief minister claimed that R2,000 crore had been spent on this constituency. Is that a joke? Where has that money gone, given the state of the colonies here? The constituency has serious connectivity issues. What is being done to improve that?Yes, connectivity is lacking, and growth hasn’t matched the population increase. Commuters struggle daily; there’s no space, and no new roads have been built. Cars are parked haphazardly, and roads are disappearing. Visit any major cluster, and you’ll see the problem. This needs to change. Once we’re elected on November 20, Uddhav-ji and Aaditya-ji’s vision will bring significant improvements for the common man. Water shortages are affecting the constituency. As an MLA for Mumbai, what steps would you take to address this issue?The water problem is pressing. We raised it at the municipal level, but it requires a city-wide approach. Once elected, I will take up this issue and bring it to the legislature. Mangesh Kudalkar Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) What are the local issues that you would prioritise? And what are your achievements so far?I have been living here since birth and have a special bond with the area. I’ve been addressing local issues not only in my two terms as MLA but since my youth. Key issues I’ve tackled include compensation for Swadeshi Mill workers, MHADA issues, and resolving problems on collector land in Pestom Sagar and Chembur, which remains on my priority list. Kurla has a growing issue of lacking civic infrastructure and amenities falling short. This shortage is also leading to safety issues. What do you have to say about it?I have proposed an upgrade for Kurla station to the Central government, with work expected to begin by March-April 2025. This will provide a major boost to civic amenities near the station. Several other upgrade projects are underway, each progressing at different stages. The constituency has significant connectivity issues. What is being done to alleviate that?In Kurla East, we are constructing a SATIS project, approved by the chief minister’s office, and a flyover over the Chunabhatti level crossing. A new link bridge at the connector’s landing has also been proposed to improve connectivity for Kurla. The Metro is a new project coming to Kurla. However, there seems to be a lack of stations. The gap between Kurla railway and Metro stations is large. Will the Metro be beneficial to Kurla residents?Yes, it will. I will advocate for more Metro stations in Kurla. An earlier plan included a station on SG Barve Marg, but that location is too congested and would create issues. I promise to revisit this and push for a solution. The growing constituency is facing water shortage issues. Water supply is a key issue—what actions would you take to improve the situation as an MLA for Mumbai?Water is indeed an emerging concern. I’ve been discussing this with the BMC commissioner and preparing for future water needs. A plan to replace all pipelines over 50 years old is also being developed. Pollution is another pressing issue. What are your thoughts?Yes, I am committed to developing a botanical garden in Kurla, which will create a large green space in the constituency. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has publicly committed to this project, and I will ensure it comes to fruition. Redevelopment puts pressure on existing amenities. Are SRA schemes necessary?Yes, but too many projects start at once and are left incomplete. My priority now is to ensure that all new and redeveloped buildings in Kurla receive proper Occupation Certificates. CitizenSpeak Kiran Pailwan, resident"The plot has about 800-900 trees. Instead of building a cement forest on the site of the old Mother Dairy, our movement is working to gather the strength of public cooperation to create a beautified park for the health of Nehru Nagar residents. The aim is to make our neighbourhood greener together. Kurla East is now overcrowded, with a lack of green or open spaces. Our petition is solely to save this open, green space," said Kiran Pailwan, one of the residents spearheading the agitation. Jitendra Gupta, citizen activistOther issues plaguing the constituency in Kurla West include poor connectivity and congestion. “The older roads are insufficient. Kurla West is crowded and congested, with no space to walk. The new Metro line does not have enough stations in Kurla East, and the West has connectivity issues. There is no direct access from LBS Road to the station—one must take a detour via the LTT. It’s an example of complete lack of planning,” said citizen activist Jitendra Gupta.
08 November,2024 10:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarTaking note of mid-day reports about the dangers posed by unmarked speed breakers across the city, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has painted the road humps on a southbound service road near the Vanrai police station along the Western Express Highway. On Wednesday, when this reporter visited the road outside Vanrai police station, speed breakers on the service road that leads to Mahanand Dairy had been painted. Speed bumps on Western Express Highway from dairy up to the SRPF signal, too, were no longer unmarked. The unmarked speed breaker on the service road between Vanrai police station and Mahanand Dairy in Goregaon East on November 4. Pic/Satej Shinde Two-wheeler rider Aditya Shinde said, “It is great to see that the authorities have painted the service road’s speed breakers after mid-day highlighted the issue. It would also be wonderful if they installed reflectors and signboards on the stretch to make motorists and two-wheeler riders aware of the presence of speed breakers and don’t have to apply the emergency brakes.” A Goregaon resident said, “It’s good that the speed bumps have been painted but the authorities should ensure that the white markings are repainted regularly. They should also install proper signage and reflectors.” A road hump on the same stretch, which was painted in the wake of mid-day’s report. Pic/Raj Patil Responding to mid-day’s campaign against deadly speed breakers, readers pointed out locations across the city where the traffic calming devices need to be painted for better visibility. They implored the authorities to paint the speed bumps and install reflectors. The Indian Road Congress recommends speed breakers have a radius of 17 metres, a height of 10 cm and a width of 3.7 metres to maintain a vehicle speed of 25 kmph for general traffic. The P South ward officer was unavailable for comment by press time.
08 November,2024 10:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavUnlike Section 377 of the IPC, which treats sodomy as a serious crime punishable by up to life imprisonment or 10 years with a fine, the new Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) does not consider sodomy a punishable offence. Legal experts, criminologists, human rights groups, and psychiatrists are urging the government to address this omission in the new law. ‘Inadvertent legislative gap’ “While the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was enacted to offer comprehensive protection against sexual offenses, its lack of specific provisions on non-consensual sodomy risks under-recognizing certain forms of sexual violence,” said Advocate Mohini Priya, Advocate of Record, Supreme Court of India. ‘Need for clarity’ “The recent dismissal of a PIL by the Supreme Court, challenging the omission of provisions on non-consensual sodomy, suggests the judiciary’s reluctance to encroach upon legislative functions. Yet, in parallel, the Hon’ble Delhi High Court has raised the issue in a petition, directing the Central Government to clarify its stance on whether the BNS should include specific protections for non-consensual sodomy and related offenses. This reflects a growing acknowledgment of the need for legislative clarity to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal access to justice under sexual violence laws,” said Advocate Mohini Priya. Way out “Addressing this issue could involve two main approaches. First, an amendment to the BNS that clearly defines non-consensual sodomy as a punishable offence would strengthen India’s commitment to protecting all citizens from sexual violence. Such a change would align with the progressive interpretation of sexual violence laws seen in cases like Nirbhaya v. Union of India (2017), where the court underscored the importance of laws responsive to evolving social realities,” said Advocate Mohini Priya. Legal vacuum “Under the BNS there is no particular section that the police can use to file a complaint of a victim who has been forced to have anal sex against his or her will. This is a grave concern as sodomy cases continue to abound,” said Valay Singh, Project Lead India Justice Report, New Delhi. What's the recourse for victims? “The judiciary / legislation needs to respond to this serious deficit immediately to ensure that access to justice for such victims is not denied under the new BNS. The police too are left in the quandary, in the absence of a specific section dealing with sodomy under BNS. One hopes that BNS will be reviewed and the section addressing sodomy would be brought back, sooner than later,” said Singh. Associated offences Advocate Dinesh Tiwari, said, “Sodomy is not an offence by itself, under the new BNS criminal law and it is nothing beyond the biggest blunder committed by those who drafted it. The least the police may consider is to register associated offence/s while committing sodomy, such as simple hurt or grievous injuries (subject to medical examination), abduction, confinement, wrongful restraint, etc.” “This needs immediate attention from the government and the offence of sodomy needs to be brought under BNS, to give justice to victims,” said Adv. Tiwari. Depressing perspective “Somehow, the mentally afflicted in India always seem to end up getting the short end of the stick in Civil Society. Perhaps it is a fallout of the stigma attached to mental illness. And from therein the denial of the very presence of mental issues. How else does one explain the rationale behind Indian Laws and the Lawmakers for not providing any provisions in the new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) which replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPS) of legal redressal to a person sodomised against his/her will? By default, the perpetuation of the emotional scarring of the sodomized victims, become the learned legal view, said Dr Bharat Vatwani, a Ramon Magsaysay Award winner and psychiatrist. Discriminatory If non-consensual sexual activity with females is a punishable offence, then how can any non-consensual sexual activity with adult males be non punishable? Are males not humans, or do they not have any dignity or respect? Why does the consent and will of a man for sexual acts have no value in Indian society? Now, as per the BNS, anyone can have forceful sexual activity with a male and the victim will not have any right to file a sexual assault case against the alleged perpetrator. This is an irony, very inhuman and discriminatory. Our parliament has created a vacuum in this regard,” said Dr Indrajit Khandekar, professor, forensic medicine, MGIMS, Sewagram (Wardha).
08 November,2024 09:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Vinod Kumar MenonThe air quality in Mumbai and its surrounding areas remained at a "moderate" level on Friday. Meanwhile, the latest Mumbai weather updates from the Indian Meteorological Department indicated a temperature rise. According to the Mumbai weather updates of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the Santacruz observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 36.0 degrees Celcius, which was 1.6 degrees above normal. The Met Department data showed that the Colaba observatory recorded a temperature of 35.5 degrees. According to the latest Mumbai weather updates by the IMD, the maximum temperature will likely be around 35 degrees Celsius, and the minimum temperature will likely be around 23 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity is 74 per cent. The sun rose at 06:42 AM and will set at 06:02 PM. The IMD’s latest Mumbai weather updates forecast a "mainly clear sky" for the city and its suburbs over the next 24 hours. Mumbai weather updates: City's AQI in 'moderate' category On November 8, the Central Pollution Control Board’s SAMEER app reported in its latest Mumbai weather updates that the city’s air quality remained in the 'moderate' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 141 at 9:05 AM. Many areas across Mumbai—per the SAMEER app dashboard—showed 'moderate' AQI. However, Deonar's AQI slipped further into the 'poor' category, at 225. Worli, Chembur and Malad recorded 'moderate' air quality with an AQI of 121, 135 and 166. Meanwhile, Borivali recorded 'good' air quality, with an AQI of 89. According to data from the SAMEER app, Navi Mumbai recorded air quality in the 'moderate' category with an AQI of 172, while Thane registered a 'moderate' AQI of 151. The air quality index from 0 to 100 is considered 'good', 100 to 200 'moderate', 200 to 300 'poor', 300 to 400 'very poor' and from 400 to 500 or above 'severe'. Meanwhile, as air pollution levels continue to rise in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has revised guidelines issued last year for construction sites. The civic body will also form squads at the ward level to visit construction sites and act if guidelines are flouted. Sensor-based air pollution monitoring systems will be installed at all construction project work sites and immediate action to be taken if pollution levels are detected above the limit.
08 November,2024 09:24 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe century-old two-foot (610 mm) narrow-gauge Matheran Hill Railway has been given a heritage makeover with the new-look engine donning a steam hood but running on diesel. The Neral-Matheran railway line opened on Wednesday after a monsoon break. An existing narrow gauge diesel engine has been modified by a special team of engineers and technicians at Mumbai’s Parel workshop by creating a hood resembling a steam engine by making necessary changes to ensure smooth running and, at the same time, maintaining the heritage look. “We had to be very careful that while covering the engine’s full functionality was maintained. The engine has been fitted with a steam vapour and sound-producing system,” a senior official said. As a precautionary measure, the line remains closed during the monsoon, however, shuttle services between Aman Lodge and Matheran continue to run. Post-monsoon, the full services were re-opened on November 6. The small train also has vistadome and air-conditioned coaches. An original steam engine brought from the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is also lying at Neral Yard being worked up to be used for charter runs in the near future, said another official. Over the years, the Central Railway authorities have been slowly upgrading the line by taking up key infrastructural works by strengthening the tracks and putting up sturdier barricading and walls along the rail lines for safe and comfortable rides to passengers. A Rs 5 crore future plan has also been drawn up to ease curves and speed up the train, which presently plies between 10-15 kmph only, officials added. The railway line originally came up as a private venture of the Peerbhoy family between 1901 and 1907 but still maintains most of its original layout, except for a few stretches. The line winds around the mountain in spirals, taking people up 2,625 feet above sea level to the serenity of Matheran. The train trundles at a very low speed of 13 kmph, pacing up the hill slowly and steadily. The line, constructed by Abdul Hussain Peerbhoy, began in 1904 and was finally opened to traffic on March 22, 1907. Nov 6Day train services were re-opened
08 November,2024 08:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarIn a surprising political move, Akhil Chitre, a local Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader, has defected to the Shiv Sena (UBT), expressing disillusionment with MNS’s current political strategy. Chitre has pledged his support to ensure the victory of Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Varun Sardesai in the Bandra East Assembly constituency, vowing to work against his former party’s candidate. Chitre, who spent 18 years with MNS, expressed that the ideology that once fuelled his loyalty now feels compromised. “For the last 18 years, I have been working with this political party for a cause, a vision, and an ideology that was sacrosanct to me. That ideology now seems lost,” Chitre stated. He condemned MNS's approach of fielding candidates solely to split votes and weaken other contenders rather than striving for a clear victory. “They have fielded Trupti Sawant with the sole intention of splitting votes and harming Varun Sardesai. I don’t want to be part of such gimmicks,” Chitre said, clarifying that he could no longer align himself with MNS’s tactics. Chitre and his supporters officially joined Shiv Sena (UBT) on Wednesday, with senior leaders Aaditya Thackeray, sitting MLA and Worli candidate, and Bandra East candidate Varun Sardesai welcoming them. “I believe change can come only under the leadership of Aaditya Thackeray,” Chitre stated, signalling his confidence in Sena (UBT)’s vision. Upon joining, Chitre issued a sharp critique of the Raj Thackeray-led MNS. In a message shared on social media platform X, Chitre wrote, “Finally, they succeeded in pushing me out of the party... The only regret is that the dagger was not thrust from the front, nor from behind, but from someone sitting beside me... Rajsaheb, you truly are surrounded by sycophants; be cautious.... Anyway, Jai Maharashtra!” In another post, Chitre shared a nostalgic photograph from MNS’s first office inauguration in Mumbai in 2006, where he appears alongside Raj Thackeray, reflecting on the dedication and camaraderie of his early years with the party. Chitre previously served as the general secretary of MNS’s youth wing, Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena (MNVS), and in 2019, contested from Bandra East, securing 10,648 votes. Trupti Sawant, then running independently, also played a role in splitting votes, a factor that contributed to Congress candidate Zeeshan Siddique’s win over Shiv Sena’s Vishwanath Mahadeshwar. Now facing criticism for his defection, some speculate that Chitre’s exit was motivated by his disappointment over being overlooked for an MNS ticket in Bandra East, where Trupti Sawant was chosen instead. MNS insiders, however, defend the decision, arguing that Sawant’s strong voter base and grassroots work made her the ideal candidate for the region. “Every party has its political strategies. Sawant has been working on the ground and was fielded in Bandra East based on her merit. If Chitre was truly loyal to MNS and Rajsaheb, he should have accepted the party’s decision,” remarked an MNS office-bearer.
08 November,2024 08:12 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghThe BJP has said that Uddhav Thackeray’s proposal to scrap the Dharavi redevelopment project was for retendering to get a 37-acre land parcel for his younger son’s love for plants and animals. While making such a charge, the party’s city chief Ashish Shelar stated on Thursday that the Sena (UBT) chief didn’t want the poor to get homes and opposed the city’s planned development. Thackeray had talked about scrapping the Dharavi project Wednesday night and reiterated it in his party’s manifesto a day later. “Dharavi didn’t have a mention in the MVA’s five guarantees, but Thackeray made his intention clear on Thursday. Is it his personal opinion? Isn’t it MVA’s collective position? Thackeray should explain this. I think he has spoken as per a script provided by someone else,” said Shelar at a press conference. He said the government had allotted the city’s land to a fully state-owned company, Dharavi Redevelopment Project, not Adani. “Thackeray should produce evidence to prove his claim. But he can’t because he is bluffing.” Shelar said a proposal for making more land available for the Dharavi project was cleared when Thackeray was the chief minister. The city BJP president warned Thackeray against instigating the fishing community by making allegations that the Mahayuti wanted to build high rises by redeveloping Mumbai’s koliwadas. “In fact, Mahayuti has laid koliwada boundaries. During Thackeray’s tenure, Worli koliwada was marked as a slum. So, please don’t bluff,” added Shelar.
08 November,2024 07:56 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentIn his party's poll manifesto, Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray has promised to scrap the Dharavi redevelopment project. The party will bring male students at par with their female counterparts by assuring them of free education. Like the Sena-BJP government of 1995-99, Thackeray's faction will stabilise prices of essential items to help people beat inflation. Thackeray's manifesto was in addition to the MVA's five guarantees that were unveiled on Wednesday. Some of its points have been stressed by the Sena (UBT). All three parties in MVA will be releasing their respective manifestos. The Mahayuti’s Ajit Pawar faction has also come out with its manifesto a day after the alliance reached out to the people with 10 promises. Thackeray assured that the way female students in the state were getting free education under a government policy, it would be implemented for male students as well if the MVA comes to power. The MVA will also stabilise the prices of essential commodities, he said. On the Dharavi redevelopment project, the former chief minister said it would be scrapped as the project would have ramifications in Mumbai. Maharashtra and Mumbai will also have a housing policy keeping rapid urbanisation in mind, he said. Thackeray said if the MVA comes to power, it will scrap cluster development of Koliwadas and Gaothans and it will be done after taking the residents into confidence. The Sena (UBT) head also said his party will work towards creating jobs. With inputs from agencies 36Assembly seats in Mumbai
08 November,2024 07:52 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentA five-year-old boy tragically died after becoming trapped in a car he was playing in on Thursday. “The little boy was trapped in the car for two hours,” said Roshan Singh, a relative of the deceased. “He was initially playing with his father and then told his father he wanted to use the restroom. The father fell asleep inside his shop, and when he woke up, he realised his son was missing. He searched nearby cars and found Kabir unconscious inside a Honda City,” said the relative. Kabir was taken to Veer Savarkar Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. The police identified the boy as Kabir Kanojiya, a resident of Ramabai Nagar in the MHADA colony, Mulund East. “Kabir’s father owns a paan shop in the MHADA colony. Kabir often accompanied his father and would play in a car parked near the shop,” said a police official. According to the police, there is a garage near the shop where Kabir used to play in one of the cars. “Around 3 pm, the boy must have entered the Honda car, got trapped inside, and couldn’t open the door from within,” the police added. Kabir’s father, Arjun Kanojiya, noticed his son was missing and, after checking the area, looked into the car to find him unconscious. Kabir Kanojia lived with his parents and older brother in Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar, Navghar, and was not yet attending school. The police are awaiting post-mortem results and have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) in the case.
08 November,2024 07:43 AM IST | Mumbai | Apoorva AgasheADVERTISEMENT
