BMC officials attacked during anti-encroachment drive in Kandivli, five held

Chaotic scenes that unfolded after 14 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation officials and around 24 civic workers attempted to launch an anti-encroachment drive in Lokhandwala Circle, Kandivli East. PICS/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) were attacked when attempting to act against illegal hawkers in Kandivli East's Lokhandwala Circle on Friday evening.

The civic team not only faced resistance during the operation but was also targeted with stone pelting, during which a JCB machine was damaged. According to sources, the sudden aggression from the crowd created panic among the civic staff. Fearing for their safety, officials and workers fled and later lodged a complaint with the police.

Police action

Following the complaint, the Samta Nagar police registered a case and arrested five persons identified as Mahendra Singh Chundawat, Kuldeep Chundawat, Jay Charla, Shaurya Charla, and Asal Ishtiyaq Sheikh. The cops said 10 to 12 unidentified persons are also wanted in connection with the attack.

The incident

Police sources said that several complaints had been received about illegal hawkers operating around the Lokhandwala Circle and nearby areas. Therefore, the civic body ordered an anti-encroachment drive. During the operation, 14 BMC officials and around 24 civic workers reached the spot with a JCB to remove encroachments from the footpath. While they were clearing the area, the arrested accused allegedly opposed the action and called in their supporters, including other hawkers. The group then surrounded the officials and allegedly attacked them, forcing the civic team to abandon the operation.

March 6
Day incident occurred