Navi Mumbai is at the centre of a high-stakes land controversy following allegations of irregularities worth Rs 4,500 crore linked to government-owned CIDCO properties. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has established a six-member investigation committee to scrutinise claims against Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, whose tenure as CIDCO chairman is under review for alleged approvals of high-value land allocations despite ongoing legal disputes.
The committee, led by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner, includes senior officials from Thane and Raigad districts, the CIDCO co-managing director, and forest department representatives. This panel aims to examine approvals granted to the Yashwant Bivalkar family for approximately 61,000 square metres of prime land in Uran and Pen tehsils land that has been under litigation for decades. A senior government official noted that forming the panel ahead of the state legislature’s winter session reflects an effort to address political and public scrutiny proactively.
The controversy stems from claims that the land allocations were approved in the first CIDCO board meeting chaired by Shirsat, overriding earlier reports and affidavits indicating the family’s ineligibility under the 12.5% land compensation scheme for project-affected persons. The original acquisition of the land under the Maharashtra Private Forests Act in 1975 has been subject to multiple court proceedings, with the High Court favouring the claim in 2014 and the Supreme Court later staying it. Observers highlight that the approvals under the current Shinde-Fadnavis government have amplified political tensions and raised questions about administrative oversight.
Industry experts suggest that the outcome of this investigation may have broader implications for urban governance and sustainable city planning in Navi Mumbai, particularly in ensuring transparency in land allocation. “Proper oversight mechanisms are essential to protect both public assets and investor confidence,” a senior urban affairs analyst said.The forest department has separately flagged potential violations, urging police action against alleged forgery and misrepresentation in acquiring forest lands. These allegations underline the need for robust regulatory frameworks that balance development with environmental stewardship, a priority for Navi Mumbai’s long-term sustainable growth.The formation of the panel is viewed as a strategic step to ensure accountability and maintain public trust ahead of legislative debates. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities emphasise adherence to legal processes and caution against premature conclusions. The city’s governance model faces a crucial test in maintaining transparency, safeguarding public land, and ensuring equitable urban development.
Navi Mumbai Officials Form Probe Panel Over Rs 4500 Crore Land Scam Allegations
