Mill workers in Mumbai have intensified their protest against the proposed housing projects at Shelu and Wangani, alleging that the state government and housing authorities are ignoring their long-standing demand for homes within Mumbai city limits.
The projects, being developed through private builders under the supervision of MHADA and CIDCO, aim to construct nearly 81,000 homes for eligible mill workers.
Several mill worker unions have opposed the projects, arguing that relocating workers to distant suburbs such as Shelu and Wangani would disrupt their livelihoods and disconnect them from Mumbai. Protesters have demanded that the government instead identify land within the city for rehabilitation housing.
The Maharashtra government has continued to push ahead with the projects despite the opposition. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had earlier announced plans for the bhoomipujan ceremony of the Shelu housing project, while work orders have reportedly been issued to private developers for project execution.
Worker organisations claim the consent process for the housing scheme lacked transparency and allege that many beneficiaries were pressured into accepting homes far from Mumbai. Multiple unions have staged protests at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan and warned of stronger agitations if the projects are not reconsidered.
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