November 06, 2025: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday dismissed concerns regarding the environmental status of the land allotted for the Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU) campus in Goregaon’s Pahadi area, stating that “all requisite permissions” have been secured from competent authorities and the site “is not a wetland.”
Fadnavis clarified the Project Initiation Ceremony for MNLU’s permanent campus, attended by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai as the chief guest. “The Chief Justice asked me whether the plot was a wetland. I said that everything has been looked into. We have all the permissions from the competent authorities,” Fadnavis said. He added that though the project had faced delays, it would emerge as one of India’s most advanced campuses. “Technology is disruptive, and though MNLU got a little late, this will be the most advanced campus with all modern advantages. I am sure it will achieve international status,” he remarked.
Highlighting the state’s education initiatives, Fadnavis announced plans for an International Education City in Navi Mumbai, aligned with the National Education Policy. “Five international universities have already approached us and will set up campuses soon,” he said, emphasizing the need for strong legal education to support governance and innovation.
CJI Gavai lauded the state government’s continued support to the judiciary, stating, “It is for the executive to provide infrastructure to the judiciary, and the Maharashtra government has always supported us.” Referring to the delayed construction, he said, “Der se aaye magar durust aaye.”
Earlier, activist Zoru Bhathena had objected to the project, claiming the land was a listed wetland under the National and State Wetland Atlas and urging withdrawal of the plan.
Established in 2014, MNLU Mumbai currently operates from Powai, with the Goregaon campus officially breaking ground on November 5, 2025.
Source: The Free Press Journal
