Mumbai: BMC’s Demolition Attempt in Dharavi Sparks Protests as Locals Oppose Action on Mehboob-E-Subhani Mosque

Mumbai, 21st September 2024: Tensions escalated in Mumbai’s Dharavi as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) arrived to demolish what they identified as an “illegal” section of a mosque in Asia’s largest slum. A significant police force was deployed in the densely populated area to prevent disruptions given the charged atmosphere.

A BMC team from the G-North administrative ward reached the 90 Feet Road in Dharavi around 9 AM to take down the alleged unauthorized portion of the Mehboob-E-Subhani mosque. However, a large group of locals quickly gathered, blocking civic officials from accessing the lane where the mosque is situated, according to a police representative.

Protesters also assembled outside the Dharavi police station, with many sitting on the road to express their opposition to the BMC’s planned action. Discussions are ongoing between mosque representatives, BMC officials, and Dharavi police to find a resolution.

In the meantime, MP Varsha Gaikwad met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to address the matter. Gaikwad later posted on social media that she conveyed the community’s concerns and received assurances from the Chief Minister that the demolition would be halted after discussions with relevant officials.

On the other hand, BJP leader and former MP Kirit Somaiya wrote a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging action against unauthorized religious structures. Somaiya alleged that the expansion of illegal mosques in Dharavi was part of what he termed “land jihad,” further accusing opposition leaders of inciting unrest by provoking the Muslim community during such operations.