Pune: NIBM Annexe–Mohammadwadi Residents Slam PMC’s Selective Encroachment Removal Drive
Pune: NIBM Annexe–Mohammadwadi Residents Slam PMC's Selective Encroachment Removal Drive
Pune | August 2, 2025: A recent anti-encroachment action by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) in the NIBM Annexe–Mohammadwadi area has sparked outrage among residents and civic activists, who allege the drive was selective and politically motivated.
The operation, which targeted the EDP Hotel near Tribeca Mall, has drawn sharp criticism for what many describe as an unfair and one-sided crackdown. While PMC officials maintain that the move was part of a wider enforcement effort against illegal constructions, local citizens argue that the drive conveniently overlooked widespread encroachments by hawkers, roadside vendors, and politically connected individuals.
Civic activist Jaymala Dhankikar strongly condemned the PMC’s approach. “This action is completely selective. Footpaths and roads are filled with illegal stalls and shops, yet PMC turns a blind eye. We pay our taxes honestly, while unauthorized businesses thrive on public land without consequence. This reflects poorly on the credibility of the civic body,” she said.
Residents also highlighted instances where former corporators and influential figures have illegally converted footpaths into private spaces, yet face no legal action.
Local resident and activist Ashok Mehendale called it a “selective hit job,” accusing PMC of shielding politically connected violators. “This is not about encroachment—it’s about double standards and administrative bias,” he said, demanding an independent inquiry into the matter.
Adding a legal dimension, social worker Hussain Shaikh said, “This violates Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law. Targeting one entity while ignoring many others is arbitrary and unacceptable. We are considering filing a PIL against the concerned officials.”
Citizens are now demanding a judicial or Lokayukta-led probe into PMC’s anti-encroachment department, citing lack of transparency, failure in uniform enforcement, and erosion of public trust.
So far, PMC has not issued any clarification or comprehensive plan for fair and consistent action across the area.
