According to police sources, the action was carried out jointly by the Collector’s office and the BMC following directions from the guardian minister
Residents have alleged that they have been living there not for a few years, but for more than two decades. Pic/Special Arrangement
In a major demolition drive, more than 100 houses and hutments built on collector’s land in Devi Mandir area of Malwani in Mumbai were razed, officials said on Tuesday.
Residents have alleged that they have been living there not for a few years, but for more than two decades. Despite their long-term residence, their homes were demolished.
According to police sources, the action was carried out jointly by the Collector’s office and the BMC following directions from the guardian minister.
Officials reportedly spared structures whose occupants could produce documents proving residence prior to 2011. However, homes belonging to those without such proof were demolished.
All the affected structures were built on collector-owned land in the Malwani Gaon Devi Mandir area.
Meanwhile, senior Maharashtra Congress leader and Malad MLA Aslam Shaikh alleged that the demolition was done at the orders of the 'Guardian Minister'.
In an official statement, Shaikh stated that the district collector carried out a demolition drive in the areas of Jyuliuswadi, Ali Talav, and Malvani. As a result of the action, the homes of poor residents have been destroyed.
The demolition drive was conducted without any prior notice and in clear violation of the Supreme Court’s orders, driven by the dirty politics of the 'Guardian Minister', the statement said.
It further said that chaos has been created by a few selfish leaders intoxicated by power, who have manipulated the administration to act at their command.
"I am deeply distressed by this inhumane incident. In light of the suffering caused to the people whose homes have been demolished, I have decided to cancel the celebration of my birthday scheduled for November 5. Public welfare activities such as grain distribution, sewing machine distribution, and health camps will take place as planned. However, no ceremony will be organised on the occasion of my birthday," the Congress leader said.
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