Pune: Amid growing allegations of corruption and forced displacement, the Slum Rehabilitation Act (SRA)—once seen as a beacon of hope for urban housing—now faces mounting scrutiny. Prominent human rights lawyer Adv. Asim Sarode has announced his intention to approach the Chief Justice of India, Hon’ble Justice Bhushan Gavai, to demand a nationwide reassessment of SRA-style projects. Sarode argues that instead of serving the poor, these schemes are increasingly being used as vehicles for profiteering by private developers.
Addressing the Slum Rights Conference hosted by the Republican Yuva Morcha, Sarode emphasized that access to adequate housing must be recognized as a fundamental human right, not just a developmental concern. Citing the controversial Bhimnagar case in Erandwane, he remarked, “What’s happening here is not simply urban planning—it’s a gross violation of basic human rights.”
The conference witnessed participation from key activists and community leaders including Republican Morcha President Rahul Dambale, Devidas Oval, Javed Sheikh, Adv. Balkrishna Niralkar, and Sagar Kiran Sonawane. Several residents of Bhimnagar recounted stories of alleged deceit by real estate developers and apathy by SRA officials, intensifying demands for greater transparency and justice.
Rahul Dambale lashed out at what he described as a “deep-rooted nexus” between corrupt builders, SRA officers, and segments of law enforcement. He revealed plans for a large-scale protest, including a symbolic gherao of the Vidhan Bhavan during the upcoming monsoon session of the Maharashtra legislature, in a bid to spotlight the plight of Bhimnagar residents.
Key Demands and Resolutions Passed During the Conference:
Immediate halt to the ongoing Bhimnagar slum rehabilitation project.
Reintroduction of the mandatory 70% consent rule for all SRA undertakings.
Legal action under the Maharashtra Ownership of Flats Act (MOFA) against developers found violating project terms.
Criminal proceedings against SRA officials complicit in enabling unlawful builder activities.
Formation of a grievance redressal body under the Chief Minister, mandated to hold quarterly public hearings on SRA-related issues.
The conference concluded with a powerful collective declaration: the struggle for the rights of slum dwellers will no longer remain unheard. As outrage simmers among affected communities, eyes are now on the judiciary, state authorities, and the forthcoming legislative session for decisive and transparent action.
