Uddhav Thackeray to Scrap Dharavi Redevelopment Tender, Opposes Adani City

Uddhav Thackeray’s Stand on Dharavi Redevelopment

Scrapping the Tender

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced that his party will scrap the Dharavi redevelopment project tender awarded to Adani Realty if they come to power. Thackeray criticized the current government for granting additional concessions to the Adani Group that were not specified in the contract. He emphasized that his party would not allow Mumbai to turn into “Adani city” and would issue a fresh tender with revised terms if necessary.

Concerns for Dharavi Residents

Thackeray assured that the residents and businesses in Dharavi would not be uprooted. He promised that people living there would be provided with 500 square feet houses within the locality itself. He also highlighted the government’s attempts to trap residents in a cycle of eligibility and ineligibility, which could lead to their displacement.

Political Context

The Dharavi redevelopment project has become a significant political issue, especially in the context of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress have made it a major poll issue. Thackeray’s party candidate, Anil Desai, secured a lead in the Dharavi assembly segment, defeating the sitting MP Rahul Shewale.

Infrastructure and Relocation Issues

Thackeray pointed out that the government is trying to procure land under the slum rehabilitation scheme to relocate Dharavi residents. This involves acquiring 20 plots in the city, which could stress existing infrastructure in those areas. He argued that this approach would create an imbalance in the city.

Criticism of Government Schemes

Thackeray also took a dig at the government, questioning if it plans to start a ‘Ladka Mitra’ scheme similar to the ‘Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin Yojana’, which provides a small monthly sum to women. He criticized the government for not addressing the core issues affecting Dharavi residents.