Thane: Police Assure Business Safety, Promise Crackdown on Extortion in Meeting with Industrialists

In a significant meeting held at the Thane Police Headquarters, Joint Commissioner of Police Dr. Dnyaneshwar Chavan assured city-based entrepreneurs that the police would take swift action against extortion threats and ensure a safe and supportive environment for industrial growth. The meeting came amid rising concerns among local businesses over harassment by extortionists, including those allegedly operating under the guise of labour unions. Dr. Chavan emphasized that any such criminal activity, especially threats in the name of “mathadi” workers, will not be tolerated.

The high-level interaction took place under the guidance of Thane Police Commissioner and was attended by office bearers of the Thane Small Scale Industries Association (TSSIA), senior police officials including Additional Commissioner Vinayak Deshmukh, DCP Prashant Kadam (Zone 5), DCP Pankaj Sirsat (Traffic), and other key officers. The dialogue was aimed at establishing trust and coordination between the business community and law enforcement agencies.

Dr. Chavan highlighted that Thane, known as an industrial hub adjoining the financial capital Mumbai, is growing rapidly. He stressed that maintaining law and order in such a city is a priority and reiterated the police’s commitment to continuous engagement with business associations to address their concerns.

As part of the Maharashtra Government’s 100-day action plan, the “Police-Entrepreneur Dialogue Programme” was organized jointly by TSSIA, Chamber of Small Industry Associations, and Thane Police. Entrepreneurs raised issues such as extortion threats, labour-related harassment, and the need for quicker police response. Dr. Chavan advised them to report any untoward incident through the police helpline (112) or by directly approaching concerned police stations.

TSSIA honorary secretary Bhavesh Maru introduced the association and lauded the police for their past cooperation. Vice-president Ashish Shirsat outlined pressing challenges faced by entrepreneurs, while executive secretary Eknath Sonawane shared data on industries in Thane. Committee members including Nikhil Sule, Kirti Panchal, and Anjum Kazi also voiced specific grievances.

Dr. Chavan assured the gathering that police stations have been instructed to act promptly against criminal elements using the cover of labour organizations. “We will not allow anyone to exploit the name of mathadi workers to harass businesses. Industrialists will get full police support to expand their ventures in a secure atmosphere,” he added.

In conclusion, representatives from TSSIA expressed gratitude for the ongoing cooperation from the police and urged continued support to make Maharashtra a truly developed state. “A conducive environment for industry is key to realizing the dream of a developed India,” said committee members Kirti Panchal and Nikhil Sule.