Mumbai: Eviction notices sent to Aarey residents for alleged encroachment; tribals say they've lived there for generations

Farming activity on land marked as forest at Aarey. Notices were served ahead of a possible demolition drive. Pics/By Special Arrangement

After declaring 812 acres in Aarey Milk Colony as forest land, the Maharashtra Forest Department has begun issuing eviction notices to individuals allegedly encroaching on the land. Those identified have been asked to either voluntarily remove their encroachments or submit documents proving rightful occupancy by August 3. If they fail to comply, the department has warned of a large-scale demolition drive.

Sources in the Forest Department told mid-day that 17 notices have been served so far. The alleged encroachments include farming, paddy cultivation, and the growing of fruits and vegetables on forest land. One of the notices, addressed to a tribal resident, reads:

"You are hereby notified that it has been found you have illegally encroached on land owned by the Forest Department. You are directed to remove the said encroachment at your own cost before 03/08/2025. Alternatively, you must appear before the Deputy Director (South), Sanjay Gandhi National Park, on 05/08/2025 with valid documents or evidence proving that the land is not illegally occupied."

The notice further states that failure to appear or submit valid proof would result in the individual being declared an illegal encroacher, and the encroachment will be removed. The cost of eviction, officials said, will be recovered from the alleged encroachers.

A hearing has been scheduled for August 5 at 11 am at the office of the Assistant Conservator of Forests (South).

However, tribal leaders have contested the move. Prakash Bhoir, a tribal representative, said:

"The land in Aarey was declared forest only in 2019-2020. Tribals have lived here for generations and cultivated this land. It's unfair to label us encroachers. We've submitted claims under the Forest Rights Act, and a committee with our representatives is in place. We plan to meet SGNP officials soon to resolve this issue."