Chaos in Dharavi: Mosque Demolition Halted After Stone Pelting and Political Showdown!
A major controversy has erupted in Mumbai’s Dharavi area over the proposed demolition of a 25-year-old mosque, Mahboob-e-Subhaniya, by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The mosque, located on 90 Feet Road, has been declared unauthorized by the BMC, prompting the demolition notice. However, local residents, predominantly from the Muslim community, strongly opposed the move, leading to a tense standoff.
When the BMC team arrived on Saturday morning to demolish the mosque, a large group of protesters gathered in the area. Tensions quickly escalated as the crowd threw stones at BMC vehicles, while others sat down in the middle of the street to block the demolition. The situation prompted a heavy police presence, and officers worked to calm the crowd and clear the traffic. Despite their efforts, protesters continued to occupy part of the road, refusing to move.
Community’s Response
A delegation representing the Muslim community has approached the Dharavi Police Station to discuss the matter with police and BMC officials. A meeting is currently underway to determine the next course of action. The protesters argue that the mosque has been standing for over two decades and should not be considered unauthorized. They have gathered around the mosque to prevent the demolition.
Stone Pelting Incident
The BMC's demolition team, accompanied by a large contingent of police, faced resistance upon arrival. Some members of the crowd resorted to stone pelting, damaging vehicles belonging to the BMC. Police officers quickly intervened, urging the protesters to clear the road and maintain peace. After negotiations, a portion of the road was cleared, but demonstrators continued to sit on the other side, refusing to allow the demolition to proceed.
Political Intervention
In an effort to halt the demolition, Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad met with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday. Gaikwad appealed to the CM to stop the BMC’s action, highlighting the significance of the mosque to the local community. She also took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to update the public, stating, "I met CM Eknath Shinde regarding the demolition notice issued by the BMC for Mahboob-e-Subhaniya Mosque in Dharavi. I apprised him of the community’s sentiments, and he assured me that he would speak to the concerned authorities and halt the demolition."
आज मुख्यमंत्री @mieknathshinde जी से धारावी के महबूब - ए - सुबानिया मस्जिद को आई बीएमसी की डिमोलिशन की नोटिस को लेकर मुलाकात की और लोगों की भावनाओं से अवगत कराया। मुख्यमंत्री से सकारात्मक बातचीत हुई। उन्होंने कहा की वे संबंधित अधिकारियों से बात करेंगे और आश्वासन दिया की तोड़क… pic.twitter.com/LmxYAt3k0W
— Prof. Varsha Eknath Gaikwad (@VarshaEGaikwad) September 20, 2024
Gaikwad's letter to the CM emphasized that the mosque has existed for many years and that the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) should investigate any encroachment claims before proceeding. She urged the Chief Minister to consider the emotional and cultural significance of the mosque for the local community.
Current Situation
As the police continue to maintain order in the area, the community awaits a final decision following the discussions between the authorities and the delegation. The protest and potential demolition of the mosque have ignited significant unrest in the area, with local leaders and community members working to resolve the situation peacefully.
The outcome of the meeting between the police, BMC, and community representatives will likely determine the future of the Mahboob-e-Subhaniya Mosque, but the situation remains tense in Dharavi.
