New Delhi: Mumbai’s large scale anti encroachment drive in Bandra East turned violent as authorities pushed ahead with demolition work linked to a major railway expansion project. Officials said nearly 85 percent of the operation has now been completed, with around 5,000 square metres of land reclaimed for the proposed fifth and sixth railway lines.
The clashes erupted in the Garib Nagar area near Bandra station after a crowd allegedly attacked police and demolition teams during the ongoing operation. Authorities said a mob of around 150 people hurled stones at police personnel and used cement blocks to obstruct bulldozers carrying out the demolition work.
Police resorted to baton charge twice to bring the situation under control. Several officers sustained injuries during the violence and were later discharged after treatment.
So far, 16 people have been arrested while more than 150 others are being searched for in connection with the incident. Cases have been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including attempt to murder, unlawful assembly and assault on public servants. Investigators are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to identify additional accused.
During court proceedings, prosecutors argued that the violence was not spontaneous but part of a planned conspiracy aimed at disrupting the demolition drive and targeting police and Railway Protection Force personnel. Authorities are seeking custodial interrogation to trace the alleged masterminds behind the attack.
The defence questioned the legality and transparency of the demolition exercise, particularly regarding the removal of a local mosque. Lawyers representing residents argued that the original Bombay High Court order did not specifically authorise demolition of religious structures.
Residents displaced by the drive also expressed anger over the timing of the operation, saying the demolitions took place just days before Eid celebrations scheduled later this month.
The Western Railway said the operation was launched following court directives to remove around 500 illegal structures located near Bandra station and Bandra Terminus as part of a railway infrastructure upgrade project. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said police acted only after they came under attack during the operation.
