Mumbai: Aaditya Thackeray Slams State Over Civic Crisis, Alleges 'Chaddi-Baniyan Gang' Runs Amok

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MLA Aaditya Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the state government in the Assembly over a range of civic issues in Mumbai, including the water and drainage systems, unmanaged garbage, and declining public infrastructure. Thackeray accused the ruling government of conspiring to dismantle key public services like the BEST bus system and of neglecting urban governance in the absence of elected municipal representatives since 2022.

During a discussion on Proposal 293, Thackeray raised concerns about the deteriorating conditions in Mumbai. He criticized the tendering process for cement concrete roads worth ₹6,000 crore, alleged irregularities in the process, and warned of a plan to hand over land in areas like Dharavi, Mulund, and Deonar to private developers.

Thackeray further claimed that mangrove forests were under threat and alleged that the government is trying to finish off BEST — Mumbai’s second lifeline after local trains. He highlighted that with no elected corporators in the BMC and several other municipal bodies since 2022, basic issues like garbage management and footpath maintenance are being ignored.

“There are 16 authorities and 42 utilities operating in Mumbai — from BMC, MHADA, MMRDA, SRA, to the Airport Authority — yet no coordination exists. Nothing moves without delays. That’s why having a mayor and corporators is crucial,” he said.

In a controversial remark, Thackeray took a dig at Sanjay Gaikwad, who recently beat up a servant in the MLA hostel canteen. Aaditya said that "members of the 'chaddi-baniyan gang'" do whatever they want in the state. This triggered a sharp reaction from Shinde Sena MLA Nilesh Rane, who objected strongly and challenged Thackeray to name individuals directly. “Such language must be removed from the House records. If he has the courage, he should take names,” Rane said.

Thackeray also took a veiled dig at CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, saying, “The CM is forced to tolerate things because of alliance dharma. Those around him — the so-called chaddi-baniyan gang — beat people and break laws but face no action. I respect Fadnavis for his patience — he acts against no one. But what’s happening in the state and Mumbai needs to be controlled.”

He concluded by demanding strict action against the so-called gang and urged the government to show its authority.