The City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd. (CIDCO) has demolished an illegal dargah near the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. The action followed sustained demands from the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) and a prior assurance by CIDCO in October to address unauthorized constructions in the area.
Origins
The controversy began in March 2023, when HJS flagged the illegal construction on CIDCO-owned land. The group alleged that the encroachment initially started with painted stones but eventually expanded into a sprawling one-acre property. The structure reportedly included a dome, compound wall, fountain, water tanks, outhouse, guesthouse, and a parking area. Despite repeated complaints, the encroachment persisted for over a year. HJS escalated the matter by meeting with CIDCO’s Chief Vigilance Officer and the Navi Mumbai Police, citing security concerns due to the site’s proximity to the airport. The Hindu IT Cell also filed a grievance with the Ministry of Home Affairs, urging urgent intervention.
Prompt Action
CIDCO had earlier stated that the demolition would take place after the Vidhan Sabha elections. True to its word, CIDCO demolished the illegal dargah and surrounding unauthorized constructions the day after polling concluded. Officials confirmed that the demolition was conducted with the assistance of local police. HJS expressed satisfaction with the demolition, attributing it to their continuous efforts to bring the issue to light. The group claimed the removal of the structure addressed critical security concerns in the airport area and marked a significant victory in their campaign against unauthorized constructions.
New Focus
Following the successful demolition, HJS announced its next objective: addressing illegal encroachments on historic forts in Maharashtra. The organization highlighted 35 forts, including Vishalgad, Kulaba, Lohagad, Vandanagad, and Shivdi, as areas of concern. They stressed the importance of preserving the cultural and historical integrity of these sites. Meanwhile, Free Press Journal quoted Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Yogesh Chile, who raised the issue two years ago, shared insights into the legal battles surrounding the dargah. He revealed that the individual managing the structure, identified as Gafoor, had failed to prove ownership of the land in court. Chile also alleged that the site had been misused for drug consumption at night, further necessitating the demolition.
Security and Heritage
Chile stated that CIDCO had promised action after the elections to avoid communal tensions. The demolition, carried out late Wednesday night with police assistance, marked the culmination of years of complaints and legal proceedings. The demolition of the illegal structure near Navi Mumbai International Airport has ensured greater security for the area. Activists now aim to extend their efforts to safeguard the sanctity of Maharashtra’s forts, urging authorities to take similar action against encroachments that threaten cultural heritage.
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