State orders inquiry into illegal hotel and construction in Mumbai F/South Ward

The Maharashtra state government on Wednesday ordered a comprehensive inquiry into an alleged illegal construction and the operation of an unauthorized hotel on a municipal plot in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) F/South Ward in Mumbai.

The announcement was made by the Maharashtra Minister of State for Urban Development, Madhuri Misal, during a session of the State Assembly. Misal stated that the BMC will be directed to immediately halt all ongoing construction at the disputed site and initiate swift action to shut down the unauthorized hotel.

The government's decision follows a Calling Attention Motion raised in the State Assembly by MLA Ajay Choudhari. MLA Ram Kadam also participated in raising the issue, highlighting the irregularities on the municipal land.

According to Minister Misal, preliminary findings have already indicated that a hotel is operating illegally on the municipal plot. Furthermore, the initial investigation revealed that property tax dues for the property are currently pending.

To address these irregularities, the Minister of State for Urban Development confirmed that a detailed and comprehensive inquiry will be conducted into the entire matter. The investigation will look into how the illegal construction and unauthorized hotel operation were allowed to take place on the civic body's land in the F/South Ward.

Misal warned that strict action will be taken against any government or municipal officials found complicit. Officials identified as responsible for the irregularities will face strict disciplinary action. Additionally, the minister stated that criminal cases will be registered against the responsible individuals if the findings of the inquiry warrant such prosecution.