Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: Tension gripped Dharavi, one of the largest slums in Asia, on Saturday when hundreds of residents gathered to oppose the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)‘s move to demolish an alleged illegal portion of the Mehboob-E-Subhani mosque.
Around 9 AM, officials from the G-North ward arrived at 90 Feet Road in Dharavi to carry out the demolition. However, a large crowd quickly gathered on the street, protesting against the civic body’s action and sitting in opposition to the move.
Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad, who represents Mumbai North Central and heads the Mumbai Congress, took to X(formerly Twitter) to express her concerns. She revealed that despite late-night assurances from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the BMC proceeded with the demolition action.
“We had requested the Chief Minister late last night to stop the proceedings so that the sentiments of the people of Dharavi are not hurt. I once again request the Chief Minister and BMC Commissioner to help us maintain peace in Dharavi and postpone the demolition action,” Gaikwad posted on X.
Situation Under Control After Talks
By noon, the situation was brought under control following discussions between the mosque trustees and BMC officials. Trustees requested a four-to-five-day grace period to remove the encroached portion of the mosque on their own.
The BMC accepted their request, and the police deployed in the area ensured no further escalation. Speaking to PTI, a police officer confirmed that the trustees had submitted a written request to the BMC’s deputy commissioner and assistant commissioner, agreeing to handle the removal of the illegal construction themselves.
Gaikwad Praises Dharavi’s Unity
Later in the day, Gaikwad announced on X that the demolition action had been cancelled, thanking the Chief Minister, administration, and police for their cooperation. “Dharavi’s unity and social harmony is our strength. We are one and will remain so,” she stated, adding that the people of Dharavi have always believed in social equality and have maintained restraint even in tense situations.
The incident underscores Dharavi’s resilience and commitment to social harmony as its residents continue to navigate challenges while maintaining peace in their community.
