In a startling turn of events, political tensions have escalated in Navi Mumbai as the Shiv Sena, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has made serious allegations against Ganesh Naik, the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Airoli MLA. The allegations revolve around the obstruction of a crucial Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) survey and hindrances in housing society redevelopment projects due to alleged intimidation of builders. Hindustan Times reported that this has prompted Shiv Sena to take decisive action, setting the stage for a potential political showdown in the region.
Shiv Sena's Accusations
Shiv Sena's city unit chief, Vijay Chougule, minced no words when he accused Ganesh Naik of obstructing a critical SRA survey in Navi Mumbai's slums. Furthermore, Chougule claimed that Naik's interference had caused significant disruptions in the redevelopment efforts of housing societies by applying undue pressure on builders. The Shiv Sena has voiced its frustration, asserting that their patience had worn thin, prompting them to launch an official protest and file a formal complaint with Chief Minister Shinde.
Naik's Response and Counterattack
In response to these accusations, Ganesh Naik's son, Sandeep Naik, who also serves as the BJP's Navi Mumbai chief, vehemently denied the allegations leveled by Shiv Sena leaders. Sandeep Naik cautioned his political rivals about potential legal repercussions for their claims. He emphasized that such allegations were aimed at diverting blame away from Shiv Sena's own actions. He suggested that these allegations were part of a calculated strategy to benefit the opposition at a time when the state was experiencing progress under Chief Minister Shinde's leadership.
Chronicle of Events
The controversy stems from Chief Minister Shinde's recent visit to Navi Mumbai, during which he directed Minister Uday Samant to implement an SRA scheme for the rehabilitation of slum residents. This directive led to the initiation of a comprehensive survey in Chinchpada, an area under Vijay Chougule's jurisdiction, involving the examination of approximately 700 houses. However, Chougule alleged that Ganesh Naik had wielded his influence to force SRA officials to halt the survey abruptly.
Interference and Intimidation
Chougule also expressed bewilderment at Naik's unwarranted interference within his constituency, emphasizing that the housing redevelopment initiative was not only a cherished project of the Chief Minister but also garnered support from Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Chougule further lamented the pervasive interference in local affairs, with civic officials reportedly facing threats from the Enforcement Directorate during public meetings and police officers encountering backlash for providing assistance.
Threats and Coercion
Kishore Patkar, Shiv Sena's Sampark Pramukh, revealed cases of builders receiving intimidating calls for financial contributions. He cited an instance in Vashi where a developer, awarded a contract through competitive bidding, was allegedly coerced into partnership and withdrew. Patkar raised doubts about Ganesh Naik's BJP commitment and expressed concerns about his actions. Vijay Chougule has discussed the matter with Chief Minister Shinde and plans to meet with both Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to keep them informed. He also announced plans for a long protest march involving slum dwellers from Digha to Turbhe, culminating in a hunger strike, seeking protection from what they view as oppressive local leadership.
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