Tensions flared up significantly near the international airport in Mumbai on Thursday as a religious structure became the center of a major political dispute. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kirit Somaiya arrived at the site with his supporters and staged a sit-in protest right at the entrance of the mosque, alleging that the entire construction is completely unauthorized.
Allegations Of Land Grabbing And Ultimatums
Kirit Somaiya asserted that prior to the year 2014, there was absolutely no sign of any structure at this particular location. He claimed that a group of individuals suddenly occupied roughly 5,000 square feet of prime and valuable land, put up a tin shed, and established a mosque. Temporary connections for electricity and water were subsequently obtained for the premises.
The BJP leader warned that if this unauthorized structure is not removed immediately, the encroachment will become permanent. He stated that formal complaints regarding this illegal occupation have already been lodged with the Mumbai Police, MMRDA, and BMC. Somaiya issued a stern warning that if swift action is not taken and bulldozers are not deployed, he will personally take matters into his own hands to demolish the structure.
Sharp Counter-Attacks From Opposition Leaders
With the controversy involving a religious site and sensitive voter dynamics, Asaduddin Owaisi's party waded into the dispute without delay. AIMIM leader Waris Pathan launched a scathing attack on Kirit Somaiya, accusing him of indulging in hooliganism. He pointed out that the matter concerning the mosque is currently sub judice and being heard in court, but politicians are attempting to mount pressure on the government.
Waris Pathan remarked that leaders like Kirit Somaiya are openly talking about carrying hammers to demolish the mosque even before any judicial verdict is delivered. He questioned why the government is failing to take legal action against individuals issuing such inflammatory threats.
Response From The Management And Stakeholders
Meanwhile, individuals connected to the management of the mosque maintained that the structure was built with proper knowledge and permission. They asserted that the prayer space was permitted with the full awareness of the then-GVK and airport authorities. The mosque representatives have referred to a 2015 letter which allegedly mentions arrangements for a prayer site associated with an individual named Mohammad Sarwar.
Trustees associated with the mosque have refrained from making official appearances on camera so far. They noted that discussions are ongoing with airport authorities, GVK, MMRDA officials, and that the matter remains pending before the Bombay High Court.
Government Stance And Broader Security Context
Addressing the broader implications of the controversy, Maharashtra minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule stated that strict legal action will be initiated against all unauthorized constructions across the state of Maharashtra.
The incident adds to a series of recent security concerns in the state, which includes an earlier stone-pelting incident during a procession in Malegaon over the throwing of gulal, where agitated crowds vandalized multiple vehicles and heavy police deployments had to be made. Separately, another violent incident was reported from Jalgaon on Dussehra night involving a fatal weapon attack on an employee.
