Bandra Government Employees to Launch Hunger Strike for Ownership Homes on October 2

Government employees residing in the Bandra government colony are set to embark on an indefinite hunger strike starting October 2, demanding ownership homes as part of a redevelopment initiative. This announcement comes just a day after Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud laid the foundation stone for the new Bombay High Court complex in the vicinity.

In August, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met with a delegation from the Government Quarters Residents’ Association (GQRA) to discuss their housing concerns. During the meeting, Shinde instructed the administration to explore the possibility of allocating a land parcel for the employees, either nearby or elsewhere in Mumbai. The GQRA proposed a plan for 2,500 flats on 12 acres of land in the same area, offering to cover costs amounting to ₹350 crore, including construction. However, the state government's lack of response to their proposal has prompted employees to escalate their protests.

Established in 1959, the government colony currently accommodates approximately 5,000 quarters for state employees across various classes. Originally spanning 125 acres, the area has faced challenges, including encroachments on about 35 acres. While the government has provided free housing for slum dwellers on the land, GQRA members assert that they are willing to pay for their homes and simply seek a decision from the government.

Ratna Naik, joint secretary of the GQRA, expressed frustration over the government's inaction: “We are not demanding free land; we are ready to pay for it. Yet, the government has not made any decisions. Therefore, we have decided to commence our hunger strike on October 2.”

As the situation develops, government employees are prepared to make their voices heard in their fight for secure housing amidst the ongoing redevelopment plans in Bandra.