Tensions Rise in Malvani as BJP–Congress Clash Intensifies
Image source PTI via Hindustan Times
Mumbai, Nov 24 — Political tensions have escalated in the Malvani area of Malad as the BJP and Congress exchanged sharp accusations over claims of alleged infiltration by Bangladeshis and Rohingyas ahead of the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The issue has triggered street protests, demands for police action and growing political confrontation in the suburban region.
Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Mangalprabhat Lodha has repeatedly raised concerns about illegal settlements and alleged infiltration in the area. According to reports, Lodha claimed that Congress MLA from Malvani, Aslam Shaikh, had threatened him over his statements and actions related to the issue. The claim intensified the political friction and prompted a strong reaction among party workers.
BJP members took to the streets of Malvani on Sunday, raising slogans and demanding action against what they described as illegal occupation and encroachment in the area. Demonstrators also sought the registration of a police case over the alleged threat issued to the minister and held a sit-in protest at the Malvani police station.
The issue of unauthorised constructions and alleged Rohingya settlement has been a recurring topic in the region. A special committee report by the Maharashtra government previously identified around 10,000 unauthorised structures in the Malvani locality, making it one of the most closely monitored zones for enforcement action.
Lodha has accused MLA Aslam Shaikh of obstructing anti-encroachment measures and supporting illegal occupants in the constituency. He has requested the Mumbai Police Commissioner to investigate and take action based on his complaint. He also claimed that a video circulating on social media contained threats directed at him and a colleague, urging authorities to intervene.
The Congress, however, has pushed back strongly. Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad alleged that the BJP was attempting to polarise voters on communal lines ahead of the civic elections. Congress members held a counter-protest outside the office of Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam, following which several party workers were detained.
Earlier this month, authorities carried out a demolition drive targeting unauthorised constructions on government-owned land in Malvani. A total of 135 illegal structures were removed in coordinated action across the Ali Talao and Chikuwadi areas.
As the political rhetoric intensifies, the issue is expected to remain a flashpoint in the run-up to the BMC polls, with both parties framing the narrative around governance, legality, identity and electoral intent.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The unfolding political tension in Malvani highlights how issues of encroachment, migration and civic enforcement often collide with electoral messaging in Mumbai. With both parties escalating their positions, the narrative may shape how voters perceive security, development and community dynamics ahead of the BMC elections. The situation remains fluid, and its impact on campaigning and civic sentiment will be closely watched in the coming weeks.