October 17, 2025: Despite an ongoing probe by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the Mumbai Crime Branch into the sprawling Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) land scam on Madh Island, illegal construction activity continues unabated. The scam allegedly involves forged land records used to facilitate the construction of several luxury bungalows. Following the Bombay High Court’s directive, the SIT issued notices to over 50 bungalows—demolishing more than 20—while the fate of others remains pending before the court.
So far, the SIT has arrested over a dozen individuals, including civic officials, brokers, and contractors. However, even as investigations proceeded, illegal construction was reportedly underway in Vyas Wadi, Madh Island, until the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a “stop-work” notice under Section 354-A of the BMC Act on October 14. Sources revealed that the plot, near a local church, was heavily barricaded to conceal activity, with banners featuring Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and union founder Abhijeet Rane displayed to deter complaints.
Locals alleged that those questioning the construction were threatened by individuals invoking the names of political and union leaders. BMC officials also faced intimidation during site inspections.
Union leader Abhijeet Rane denied any involvement, stating, “If someone has used banners for any illegal activity, the organisation will take action against them, and they will also be expelled from the union. I do not support any illegal work.” He confirmed ordering the immediate removal of the banners, calling the incident damaging to the union’s reputation.
The BMC’s P North Ward has warned that failure to produce valid permissions within 24 hours will lead to demolition at the owner’s cost. Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the SIT probe and has directed full cooperation from both BMC and police officials.
Source: Mid-day
