As the election fervour grips Mumbai, residents of Bangur Nagar in Goregaon West are gearing up for a unique form of protest – a boycott of the upcoming polls.
The decision stems from deep-seated frustration over the persistent issue of land encroachment in their locality, which has remained unaddressed by successive political representatives. The Bangur Nagar Residents Association, representing approximately 20,000 citizens across 54 housing societies, has voiced their discontent over the encroachment of an open space designated as a public playground. Despite repeated appeals and complaints to local authorities, including Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), Members of Parliament (MPs), and corporators, the issue continues to persist.
The crux of the matter lies in the alleged failure of political representatives to uphold the provisions outlined in Development Plan 2034 (DP-2034), which mandates the preservation of open spaces for public use. Residents lament the lack of action taken against illegal encroachments, noise pollution, and unauthorised parking, which have plagued the area for years. Of particular concern is the conversion of the designated open space into a commercial venture, with reports of mangrove destruction exacerbating environmental and revenue losses for the government. The residents’ statement underscores their determination to hold elected officials accountable for their perceived negligence and calls for the restoration of open spaces as per the original BMC plan.
This electoral boycott serves as a potent symbol of public discontent, highlighting the disconnect between citizens and their elected representatives. It reflects a broader trend of civic activism, where communities assert their rights and demand accountability from those entrusted with governance. As Mumbai approaches election day, the Bangur Nagar residents’ decision to boycott the polls sends a clear message political apathy towards pressing local issues will not be tolerated, and citizens will actively seek redressal for their grievances.
