As the inauguration of the Navi Mumbai International Airport approaches, mounting frustration has been expressed by the Project Affected Persons (PAPs), especially from the Agri-Koli community, over the unresolved issue of naming the airport after their late leader, Dinkar Balu Patil.
Although over 90% of construction work has been completed and operational preparations are underway, an official confirmation regarding the airport’s name is still awaited from the central government. Despite resolutions being passed at the state level, including approval by both legislative houses to name the airport after D B Patil, a formal declaration has not been issued. The dispute has its roots in an earlier proposal by the then-state government to name the airport after Bal Thackeray. That decision was met with widespread opposition from PAPs, leading to the resolution being amended. The current state administration had taken swift steps to align the naming with the sentiments of the displaced communities. However, the absence of a central response has been viewed as neglect.
Community leaders have warned that June 24, which marks Patil’s 12th death anniversary, is the final deadline for the name to be finalised. A massive rally involving cars and bikes has been planned on the day as both a tribute and a symbolic act of resistance. The rally is being coordinated by several organisations, including the Loknete D B Patil Airport Action Committee and the Agri-Koli Youth Foundation. Concerns have also been raised over past assurances that remain unfulfilled. It was recalled that during site visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia earlier this year, the issue was not addressed. An assurance made by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation in October 2024 also remains unacted upon.
Statements from PAP representatives have reflected a deep sense of alienation. It has been alleged that even signage carrying Patil’s name was removed recently, adding to the perception of disregard. Similar sentiments were echoed during controversies surrounding the naming of the Atal Setu bridge, where local voices were reportedly ignored. In response, BJP MLA Prashant Thakur has stated that several meetings with senior leaders have taken place and that the name would be finalised once the airport is fully operational. However, confidence among the affected communities remains low as the deadline nears.
Share
Tweet
