The Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to provide a fair hearing to slum dwellers residing within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) who are facing eviction. This decision ensures that these residents have an opportunity to present their eligibility for rehabilitation before any eviction actions are taken.

In response, the state government has identified approximately 290 hectares (722 acres) of land across Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan, Ambernath, Shahapur, and Murbad talukas for constructing tenements to accommodate eligible slum dwellers. The authorities have been instructed to complete the necessary formalities within 60 days.

Furthermore, the government is considering extending the eligibility cutoff date for rehabilitation from January 1, 1995, to January 1, 2011. This extension would potentially increase the number of slum residents eligible for relocation assistance. A committee led by the SGNP director will oversee the removal of encroachments established after the proposed cutoff date.

This development follows a prolonged legal battle that began in 1995, when the High Court initially ordered the rehabilitation of eligible residents and the eviction of others. Despite previous directives, many residents remained in the park due to delays in implementing rehabilitation measures.

The recent court order aims to balance environmental conservation efforts with the rights and welfare of long-standing residents, ensuring that those eligible receive appropriate rehabilitation opportunities.

Sources