A major controversy has erupted in Mumbai after senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kirit Somaiya disclosed that the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority has issued strict directives to pull down an unauthorized mosque situated near Terminal 2 of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The political leader alleged that a systematic design is underway to alter the cultural fabric of the metropolis through such unauthorized constructions.
Elaborating on the issue during an interaction, the BJP leader claimed that a calculated campaign is being executed to reshape the demographic profile of the city. Recalling past instances, he pointed out that unauthorized outsiders had previously settled near the Bandra railway terminus, and now a mosque has been erected in close proximity to the VIP gate of the airport. According to his statements, the disputed structure is well-equipped with modern amenities, featuring 12 air conditioning units and 30 water taps, highlighting the extensive nature of the setup.
Detailing the administrative response, he stated that following his strong objections, official machinery swung into action. The Maharashtra government body, MMRDA, issued a formal warning to Mumbai International Airport Ltd, declaring the structure entirely illegal. The authorities confirmed that no prior permissions or sanctions were ever granted for the construction, prompting immediate orders for its removal from the site.
Taking to the social media platform X to share an official document, the politician reiterated that the civic authority has directed the airport management to dismantle the illegal structure without delay. He added that he has formally urged both the airport authorities and the development body to register a police FIR against the trustees and individuals responsible for orchestrating the encroachment.
Expressing grave concern over security and land integrity, the leader asserted that such structures under the guise of places of worship are being utilized for localized land acquisition tactics in sensitive zones. He demanded a thorough police investigation into the entire episode to unearth the network behind the encroachment. The political figure also launched a scathing attack on opposition parties, accusing them of compromising national security merely for electoral gains and vote-bank politics.
