Mumbai: Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Maharashtra President, Maulana Ilyas Khan Falahi, has strongly condemned the large-scale demolitions in Chikhali, Pimpri-Chinchwad, calling them a violation of Supreme Court directives.
Addressing the media, Maulana Falahi expressed deep concern over the demolitions carried out as part of an anti-encroachment drive. He highlighted that nearly one lakh workers have lost their jobs, and hundreds of small businesses have been destroyed, causing a severe economic crisis in the area. “This act of injustice disregards human rights and the Supreme Court’s clear directives on eviction and rehabilitation. The abrupt destruction of commercial establishments has pushed workers and business owners into financial despair,” he said.
Maulana Falahi also pointed out media reports suggesting that the drive could be part of a larger plan to clear prime land for real estate developers. “If these allegations are true, then this action is undemocratic and against the principles of truth and justice,” he added.
Citing the Supreme Court’s stance in the Haldwani eviction case, he emphasized that evictions should not occur without proper rehabilitation. “Even assuming they are encroachers, they are human beings. They have been there for decades,” he quoted the court’s ruling. He criticized the Pimpri-Chinchwad administration for ignoring these guidelines and violating the fundamental rights of affected families. The cutting off of electricity, water, and road access, he said, reflects a complete disregard for people’s basic needs.
Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Maharashtra, has demanded an immediate halt to the eviction drive, warning that it may extend to other areas. “The government must prioritize justice and human dignity over commercial interests,” Maulana Falahi asserted. He urged civil society, human rights organizations, and legal experts to stand with the affected people and called for solidarity against this injustice.
He also appreciated the efforts of individuals, particularly from the Muslim community, who provided food and essential aid to the displaced workers and residents. JIH Maharashtra pledged to continue supporting the victims and advocating for their rights.
