In a troubling turn of events in Mumbai, allegations have surfaced regarding the SRA (Slum Rehabilitation Authority) engaging in unlawful demolition activities at the Basera Society in Bharat Nagar, Bandra East. This action comes just two days after residents received a dubious demolition notice, raising alarms about the apparent influence of powerful builders in the region.
Critics claim that the ongoing demolition serves the interests of corporate giants like Adani, with local authorities seemingly bound to their agenda. Congress leader Sachin Sawant took to his X account to lambaste the SRA for its actions, stating that the authority is acting unlawfully and disregarding residents’ rights. “The SRA’s decisions reflect a blatant disregard for the rule of law, prioritizing corporate interests over the welfare of the community,” he asserted in his post.
The situation has sparked outrage, especially considering the timeline surrounding the society’s application for rehabilitation. On January 12, 2024, Valsa Nair, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing Department, conducted a hearing for the society’s case. However, a verdict was only reached eight months later, on August 30, 2024. This delay goes against the stipulations of the Code of Civil Procedure, which mandates decisions should be delivered within one to two months.
Residents have expressed their frustration over the lack of transparency in the process, noting that the order was not adequately communicated to them. The absence of an open hearing for the verdict has raised further questions, as many claim they couldn’t find the order online, leading to speculation about possible cover-ups.
The demolition notice reportedly issued on Friday left residents in disbelief, as they observed representatives associated with Adani roaming the vicinity throughout the day. This has raised significant concerns among community members about the apparent collusion between builders and local authorities.
Local leaders, including MP Varsha Gaikwad and MLA Sachin Sawant, have stepped in to address these injustices. They plan to formally request a stay on the demolition to provide residents with adequate time to seek legal recourse. Gaikwad’s office confirmed that her efforts are focused on halting the demolition actions in Bandra East for the time being.
