The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday launched a demolition drive against five illegal film studios in Marh, Erangal and Bhati areas in the western suburbs of Mumbai. These studios fall in the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and the demolition will be completed within two days, according to a statement by the civic body.
The demolition drive was launched after the National Green Tribunal vacated its stay and ordered action against the studio, according to ANI. Of the 11 film studios operating illegally in the area, four were demolished by their owners after receiving notices, two studios obtained necessary permissions, and five studios obtained stay orders. A team of 10 engineers and 40 municipal corporation employees carried out the demolition with the help of JCB machines, two dumpers, two gas cutters and other equipment in the presence of the police.
#Watch , BMC action against “illegally constructed” film studio in Mumbai’s Madh area following court order pic.twitter.com/Orn1k7W1j4– ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2023
However, the demolition drive also targeted a film studio built by former minister and Congress leader Aslam Sheikh in Mumbai’s Madh area. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya alleged that Shaikh had illegally constructed the studio on thousands of square meters of land on the basis of false permissions and forged documents. Somaiya also claimed that BMC commissioner Iqbal Chahal knew about the illegal scam but did not take any action.
#Watch | BMC commissioner Iqbal Chahal knew about this illegal scam, but did not take action. We approached the court, which questioned the BMC as to how the illegal construction was allowed. Requested the CM and Deputy CM to order an inquiry into it: Kirit Somaiya, BJP on “illegally constructed” film studios in Madhya, Mumbai pic.twitter.com/QJRMbg81a2
– ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2023
Speaking to ANI, Somaiya alleged, “Shooting was allowed here by erecting a temporary shed for the film set, which was later converted into a bungalow and studio made of cement and concrete.”
He further added, “BMC commissioner Iqbal Chahal knew about this illegal scam, but did not take action. We approached the court, which questioned BMC as to how the illegal construction was allowed. CM and Deputy CM Requested to order its inquiry.”