Mumbai, July 2: A tragic incident in the Sakinaaka area of Mumbai has led to the death of 60-year-old Aslam Sheikh after he fell into an open manhole. This unfortunate event has ignited political tensions. Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have expressed their sorrow over the incident, while opposition parties have targeted the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the state government.
BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay described the incident as unfortunate, noting that Sheikh’s death was not an isolated case; earlier, two other individuals, Dr. Amarapurkar and Bhanushali, also fell into manholes. He emphasized that during a recent mayoral visit, even officials fell into manholes. “The life of every Mumbaikar is invaluable. Leaving manholes open without any warning or security is extremely dangerous. Strict action must be taken against the responsible officials,” he stated.
Amit Satam, president of BJP Mumbai, mentioned, “An investigation is underway. Manholes must have covers. Negligence cannot be tolerated, as it can cost lives. Just two days ago, a tree fell and killed an 11-year-old boy. These incidents are alarming, and we are addressing them. Our mayor and officials are working together on this issue.”
Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande questioned how the manhole cover was left open, asserting that a municipal employee should have been present. He called for an investigation and action against those responsible.
NCP MP Sunil Tatkare insisted that these incidents warrant thorough investigation. “These are consequences of the ongoing rains. The Konkan region has experienced four days of heavy rainfall. While we are accustomed to rain, excessive downpours have created challenges throughout the state, affecting farmers as well. However, when such incidents occur, the administration must take responsibility. Everyone must collaborate to prevent future accidents,” he said.
Shiv Sena UBT MLA Sunil Prabhu remarked that the same employees and officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation are still in place, and the lack of planning has led to this crisis.
Congress leader Nana Patole criticized the government for being embroiled in corruption, stating that the state government shows no concern for the lives of ordinary citizens. “They only seek power. We raised questions from day one when a tree fell and killed an innocent child during the first rain. Today, we see another aspect of development,” he said.
Patole added that the extent of government corruption has reached its limits. He appealed to the High Court to investigate funds spent in the name of development in the state. “People in Mumbai are dying after falling into manholes due to rain. Farmers are committing suicide. Do we not have the right to live in Maharashtra?” he questioned.
Congress MLA Amin Patel stated, “This is a clear case of negligence by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Three accidents have occurred within three days. On the first day, a person fell into a manhole. The next day, a child was involved in a school bus accident, and now, another individual has died after falling into a manhole in Chembur. What is the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation doing? Despite significant expenditure, why is there negligence in the cleaning and maintenance of drains and manholes? Will there be an FIR filed? Will any action be taken? Will the people of Mumbai receive answers? This is a serious matter, and it does not seem that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is treating it with the seriousness it deserves.”
Leave a Comment