Mumbai: BMC action on 14-foot-high slums sparks row, Thackeray camp vs BJP

The political atmosphere in Mumbai has heated up over the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) proposed action against unauthorised slums that are 14 feet or taller. The BMC has announced a special drive against unauthorised construction in slum areas between October 1 and December 31, 2026. According to a report based on the civic body's data, a total of 39,111 slum structures will come under the scope of this drive.

The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction has opposed the action. MLA Sunil Prabhu has written to Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide demanding that the proposed demolition drive be halted immediately and that an inclusive policy be framed for slum dwellers.

According to the BMC, there are a total of 2,23,150 slum structures across Mumbai city and its suburbs. Of these, 39,111 have been found to be 14 feet or taller. Of these, 31,227 structures are in the eastern suburbs, 4,536 in the western suburbs and 3,348 in Mumbai city. Action has already been taken against some structures under this drive, and 611 structures are reported to have been issued notices.

Sunil Prabhu said that if action is taken without individual verification, adequate prior notice, an opportunity for hearing and consideration of rehabilitation, it could create major problems for people. He demanded that a complete survey be conducted and a clear policy be finalised before any action.

Meanwhile, Aaditya Thackeray targeted the ruling party over the BMC's action. He alleged a lack of coordination between the corporation's decisions and the mayor's role. He also said the BJP does not know how to run a government.

Writing on Twitter, Aaditya Thackeray said that the BJP-appointed mayor Ritu Tawde, who herself heads the BMC, presided over a civic body that proposed demolishing all unauthorised homes and slums taller than 14 feet. But now, he said, Mayor Ritu Tawde herself is opposing the same proposal. He called it very strange and shameful, and asked what exactly was going on.

BJP spokesperson Navnath Ban hit back at Aaditya Thackeray's remarks. Referring to the BJP's governments in various states across the country and the Thackeray faction's current political standing, he said Aaditya Thackeray should introspect on his own party's functioning before advising others on running a government.

Differences between the municipal administration and various political parties over the action are coming out into the open. Earlier too, corporators from all parties had raised questions over the BMC's proposal and demanded clear criteria, a survey and consultation with public representatives before any action.

Mumbaikars are now watching closely to see what stance the BMC administration takes on the proposed action starting October 1, and what solution emerges for the demands of slum dwellers.