Aaditya Thackeray, the Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA, has publicly condemned Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, alleging serious corruption and the misappropriation of public land for personal gain. At a press conference held on August 20, 2026, Thackeray accused the state government of “selling off” recreational spaces and playgrounds in Mumbai to favour certain contractors and friends. He highlighted a specific controversy surrounding three MHADA plots reportedly leased to a trust managed by a BJP official, asserting that these lands are being taken away from public use.

According to Thackeray, the Chief Minister is engaging in systematic efforts to privatise public recreational areas for the benefit of selected individuals. “This is not a conspiracy; this is corruption happening right in front of your eyes,” he asserted, emphasising that the open spaces that belong to the community should not be hoarded for private enrichment.

Details of the Alleged Land Valuation Scam

During the conference, Thackeray discussed a particular plot that had been developed during the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) regime, highlighting its importance to the local community. He stated that the land, which features amenities such as a walking track and an urban forest, is being transferred to the BJP MLA’s trust for an amount that he described as severely undervalued. “While this plot was previously valued at around Rs 550 crores, the CM is now suggesting it be valued at merely Rs 21 lakhs per year,” Thackeray claimed.

This significant reduction in valuation has raised eyebrows, prompting questions about the motivations behind such an apparent discrepancy. Thackeray alleged that the Chief Minister’s actions are part of a broader pattern of favouring friends and associates in significant urban land dealings, a trend he believes undermines public interests.

In addition to the MHADA plots, Thackeray expressed concern over the future of the Neville D’Souza Football Turf in Bandra, a cherished venue for young athletes. He accused the government of planning to convert this sports facility into an exhibition centre named after a BJP leader, thus stripping the community of a valuable resource.

Call to Action and Broader Critique of Government Policies

Thackeray is urging citizens of Mumbai to stand together against these actions, announcing a planned protest at the Neville D’Souza Turf on August 23, 2023, at 5 PM. He stressed the need for unity among Mumbaikars, calling for peaceful demonstrations devoid of political symbols, aside from the national tricolour. Thackeray insists that the ongoing erosion of public resources is a fight against corruption that all citizens must join.

Expanding his critique, he branded the current administration as “anti-Gen Z,” arguing that the so-called development initiatives are primarily benefiting a select group of contractors while the general populace suffers from inadequate infrastructure, including poor roads and water supply issues. Thackeray maintains that sustainable development should include the preservation of open spaces, which he believes are essential for future generations.

As he concluded, Thackeray reiterated his stance, stating that the Chief Minister’s actions amount to a theft of public land, which he promises to challenge rigorously. His remarks encapsulate a growing discontent over urban planning and governance in Maharashtra, especially among the youth who are concerned about the availability of public amenities and resources.

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