Shiv Sena (UBT) Spreading False Narratives About Dharavi Redevelopment: Ashish Shelar

As the state Assembly election approaches on November 20, BJP Mumbai unit chief Ashish Shelar has accused Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, his party members, and an "ignorant" Aaditya Thackeray of deliberately sowing distrust in the government among Dharavi residents by spreading false narratives. Shelar suggested that this might be part of an international conspiracy, further alleging that Aaditya Thackeray is acting as a spokesperson for "Urban Naxals," similar to previous opposition attempts to mislead the public during the Lok Sabha elections.

Shelar criticized Aaditya Thackeray for opposing the Dharavi Redevelopment Project without thoroughly reviewing the tender documents, alleging that Aaditya is trying to please his "Naxal friends" while inciting tensions among the Marathi, Muslim, and Dalit communities. Shelar emphasized that they plan to communicate the facts directly to the public. He dismissed Aaditya's criticisms, arguing that 70% of Dharavi's population—comprising Dalits, Muslims, and Marathi citizens—will benefit from the redevelopment.

Shelar also highlighted that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) stands to gain ₹15,000 crore from the project, with 37% of the 430 acres designated for playgrounds and recreational areas. He questioned why Aaditya opposes a project that, in his view, benefits Dharavi residents, Mumbaikars, the BMC, and the government. Acknowledging the potential for accusations of favoritism toward contractors, Shelar reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency in serving Mumbai's interests. He challenged Aaditya and other politicians to engage in open discussions about the issues they raised.

Shelar provided further details about the redevelopment, noting that approximately 430 acres are available for the project, with sufficient land reserved for infrastructure and open spaces. Homes will be constructed on 260 acres. He questioned Aaditya's opposition when the project would create significant open spaces for Mumbai. Shelar clarified that the entire Dharavi land falls under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP), established by the state government, with the DRPPL serving as the contractor. Under the agreement, 80% of the benefits will go to a special-purpose vehicle, and 20% will go to the state government.

Addressing concerns raised by Aaditya and Varsha Gaikwad regarding the BMC's ownership of Dharavi land, Shelar explained that about half of the land belongs to the BMC, with the remaining portions owned by the state and central governments. He emphasized that the rules for slum redevelopment apply uniformly across Mumbai and that landowners receive compensation at 25% of the ready reckoner rate.

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Challenging Aaditya, Shelar dared him to produce any government document or cabinet decision confirming the transfer of 1,080 acres to the DRP, threatening to leave politics if Aaditya could prove it. He urged Aaditya to study the matter thoroughly instead of acting as a pawn for "Urban Naxals." Shelar pointed out that the state government had allocated 540 acres for the Dharavi redevelopment, questioning the source of Aaditya’s 1,080-acre claim. In a sarcastic remark, Shelar suggested that Aaditya might be receiving biased information from Sanjay Raut.

Shelar clarified that the DRP's land allocation does not include BMC or toll naka land but instead comprises salt pan lands and plots from Kanjur, Mulund, Kurla, and Madh. He also claimed that Uddhav Thackeray, during his tenure as chief minister, had agreed to provide the necessary space for the project. Shelar implied that Aaditya should question his father about this agreement.

Additionally, Shelar pointed out that the land is not being provided for free; the contractor will pay 25% of the ready reckoner rate—estimated at ₹3,000 crore—to the landowner. He questioned the opposition to the project, given that both the BMC and the state would benefit from this payment.

Finally, Shelar accused Uddhav Thackeray of plotting to seize a 37-acre nature park in Dharavi, close to their residence, under the guise of Aaditya’s concern for nature and animals. He claimed this was an attempt to create division within the community.

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