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Brief narrative |
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, the MbPA served notices to nearly 120 households along New Tank Bunder Road on 17 April 2026. Authorities described the settlements as “unauthorised encroachments” and cited “security threat” concerns because the area lies close to port infrastructure. On 28–29 April, nearly 400 residents formed a human chain and blocked access to the area, resisting initial demolition attempts.
A second demolition attempt was undertaken on 12 May under heavy police deployment involving nearly 500 personnel. Around 100 homes were demolished, reportedly displacing nearly 500 residents, including children and elderly people. Bulldozers entered early in the morning while police had reportedly been stationed overnight. Many residents claim to have lived there since before 1995 and possess entitlement documents. However, rehabilitation claims cannot automatically be applied because the land belongs to the central government. Both ruling and opposition party leaders reportedly gave assurances after the first demolition attempt, but ultimately, the residents did not receive any relief. Demolitions on port land have occurred periodically, though residents are often later allowed to resettle.
Original article |