Maharashtra Minister Lodha Seeks Strict Action Over Illegal Structures, Flags Rohingya-Bangladeshi Infiltration Concern
Maharashtra Minister Lodha Seeks Strict Action Over Illegal Structures, Flags Rohingya-Bangladeshi Infiltration Concern Reported By, Last Updated: May 20, 2026, 03:05 IST Lodha alleged that
Maharashtra Minister Lodha Seeks Strict Action Over Illegal Structures, Flags Rohingya-Bangladeshi Infiltration Concern Reported By, Last Updated: May 20, 2026, 03:05 IST Lodha alleged that those involved in illegal constructions were acting with the backing of certain local political leaders During his visit, Lodha (R) held discussions with senior officials at Malvani Police Station and demanded swift action in the matter. Image/News18 Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on alleged illegal constructions in Mumbai’s Malvani area, claiming that land mafias were operating under political protection and that local residents were being pressured to shelter Bangladeshi and Rohingya infiltrators. Speaking to reporters after visiting a woman allegedly affected by an illegal structure near Savariya Masjid in Malvani, Lodha said such activities were creating fear among locals and could not be ignored any longer.
The minister met Ragini Ramashankar Chaurasia, a resident of Abbasia Compound, who claimed that an adjoining illegal construction had blocked the entrance of her home. According to the family, repeated complaints to local authorities initially yielded little response. Hindu organisations had also raised objections over the issue. Lodha alleged that those involved in illegal constructions were acting with the backing of certain local political leaders and warned that “injustice against the Hindu community" would receive a “befitting reply." He further claimed that infiltration by Bangladeshis and Rohingyas posed a threat to national security and said the government would continue taking strict action against such activities. The controversy intensified after allegations surfaced that a roadside structure at Abbasia Compound had been inaugurated by local political representatives without proper permissions.
Authorities later found that the structure, built with cement bricks and iron pillars, lacked the required approvals. Following the complaints, the municipal corporation initiated demolition and enforcement action. Police officials have also indicated that criminal cases could be registered against those responsible for the alleged illegal construction. During his visit, Lodha held discussions with senior officials at Malvani Police Station and demanded swift action in the matter. He said the state government, under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, was committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring that such disputes do not escalate further. The issue has once again brought the spotlight on illegal constructions and demographic concerns in parts of suburban Mumbai, especially Malvani, where civic authorities have faced repeated criticism over unauthorised structures and delayed enforcement.
News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: May 20, 2026, 03:05 IST News india Maharashtra Minister Lodha Seeks Strict Action Over Illegal Structures, Flags Rohingya-Bangladeshi Infiltration Concern Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
The BriefWire