Mumbai: Dharavi Erupts in Protest Over Draft Annexure-II; 75% Residents Face Eviction
Mumbai, 25th June 2025: Tensions flared in Dharavi after the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) released its first draft of Appendix-II on Monday, triggering widespread anger among residents. According to the draft, only 25% of Dharavi’s residents have been deemed eligible for in-situ rehabilitation, while the remaining 75% face eviction.
The list, which covers 505 structures in Ganesh Nagar and Meghwadi (Sector 6), identifies only 228 residents as eligible. Of these, just 101 slum dwellers are entitled to free housing within Dharavi, raising alarm about the fate of the majority.
In response, the Dharavi Bachao Andolan has announced an aggressive protest campaign. Accusing the state government of trying to hand over Dharavi land to the Adani Group, the group has called the move an “injustice” and plans to intensify its agitation over the next two days.
“We will inspect 200 locations across Dharavi and expose the flaws in this redevelopment plan,” said AK Raju Korde, coordinator of the Dharavi Bachao Andolan. Details of the protest sites and schedule will be shared soon, he added.
Residents have long demanded 500 sq ft houses and in-situ rehabilitation. However, many feel these demands are being ignored as the project advances. The perceived lack of transparency and mass disqualifications have only deepened public outrage.
The DRP’s release of the draft has added fuel to the fire, with the Andolan warning that the current plan could displace thousands who have lived in Dharavi for decades.
As protests gain momentum, the future of Asia’s largest slum hangs in balance, with residents preparing for what they’re calling a “Holi of the Plan” — a symbolic protest against a redevelopment model they believe is designed to push them out.
