Navi Mumbai: MLA Ganesh Naik has issued a stern warning to the state government regarding the proposed inclusion of 14 villages into the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC). Naik has demanded that the state government either allocate Rs. 7,000 crores for the development of these villages or face strong opposition to their incorporation into NMMC.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the veteran politician outlined his conditions for the inclusion of the villages. He insisted that until encroachments on government land are cleared, and a tunnel is constructed through Parsik Hill to connect the villages to Navi Mumbai, the proposed inclusion should not proceed. Furthermore, Naik emphasized that the state must provide substantial funding for the villages' development before any inclusion can be considered.

At a press conference, MLA Naik clarified his stance, asserting that he does not wish to impose an additional financial burden on the residents of Navi Mumbai for the development of these villages. He also expressed support for a public interest petition filed in the High Court, arguing against the inclusion of the 14 villages, which he claims are geographically disconnected from Navi Mumbai.

He further highlighted concerns over unauthorized constructions, encroachments, and slums in the villages. He noted that previous demands for approximately Rs. 6,100 crores for infrastructure and Rs. 600 crores specifically for village facilities were ignored by the state government. MLA Naik criticized the current administration for bypassing the concerns of local representatives and citizens and for pushing the decision as a political move aimed at gaining an advantage in the Lok Sabha elections.

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has already sent a resolution regarding the inclusion of the villages to the government, outlining the need for significant funds for development. Naik has communicated his position on the issue to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, and is awaiting a positive response.

If the demands are not met, MLA Naik has vowed to continue opposing the inclusion of the 14 villages into the NMMC, emphasizing the need for adequate funding and proper planning before any such decision is finalized.