Controversial Mosque Demolition in Dharavi Halted Amid Protests

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) plan to demolish an alleged illegal mosque section in Dharavi has been halted following protests. Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad confirmed the cancellation after discussions with the Chief Minister. Deputy Commissioner Satpute urged people to disregard misleading social media messages and maintain peace.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has called off its initiative to demolish an allegedly unauthorized portion of a mosque in Dharavi, Asia's largest slum, after a massive local protest. Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad announced the cancellation following talks with the Chief Minister.

Deputy Commissioner of Police for Zone 5, Tejaswi Satpute, confirmed that the situation in Dharavi remains calm. She noted that the gathered crowd disbanded peacefully upon request and cautioned the public to disregard misleading messages circulating on social media.

The BMC initially issued a notice to remove the construction on 90-foot road but later granted a 4-5 day deadline after receiving a written request from the mosque trustees, agreeing to self-demolish the encroached portion. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged a court decision demanding the demolition of unauthorized structures and reiterated that actions would resume after Eid if necessary.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray accused authorities of attempting to incite communal conflict, underscoring the unnecessary involvement of caste and religion in the controversy.

(With inputs from agencies.)