June 30, 2025: Residents of Nargis Dutt Nagar near Bandra Reclamation are expressing deep concern over the future of the ‘Miracle Cross’—a revered 200-year-old religious structure now facing demolition under a proposed slum redevelopment plan.
The cross and adjacent grotto occupy approximately 3,000 sq ft and have long served as a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths, who visit to pray and seek healing. Deeply rooted in Bandra’s Koli community, the shrine is not only a religious landmark but also an emotional anchor passed down through generations.
The Miracle Cross Association has filed a case in the Bombay High Court, alleging that the redevelopment project constitutes a “land grab” for the benefit of private developers. The first hearing took place on June 26, with the next scheduled for July 9.
According to former municipal councillor Rahebar Khan Raja, who holds power of attorney for the Association, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), and the BMC have included the cross and prayer hall in the SRA scheme. However, these are neither residential nor commercial structures.
On June 25, Justices G.S. Kulkarni and Arif Doctor issued a stay on any eviction or demolition orders. They questioned the authorities’ inclusion of a prayer site in a slum redevelopment plan and demanded clarity regarding land ownership.
Khan added, “This sea-facing land was reclaimed and allocated in 1964 to MHADA for EWS and LIG housing. Now, under the guise of redevelopment, developers aim to exploit prime property. But this shrine—located opposite Rangsharda Hotel—is no slum.”Until further orders, the court has restrained any eviction or demolition activity.
Source: The Times Of India
