Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, July 19: In a significant outreach, a delegation from the Bunts Sangha Mumbai and the Indian Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHAR) met Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence, Muktagiri in Walkeshwar, on Saturday. The meeting centred on pressing concerns faced by the hotel industry and the South Indian business community in the wake of recent political controversy.

The delegation submitted a memorandum seeking immediate government intervention after a controversial statement by a legislator caused widespread resentment and anxiety among hoteliers and entrepreneurs, particularly within the South Indian community. Expressing dismay, the delegation urged the deputy CM to take decisive steps to protect the dignity and livelihood of honest professionals in the hospitality sector.

Responding empathetically, deputy CM Shinde stated that the government had taken the matter seriously from the outset. “We, too, were hurt by the MLA’s remarks, which impacted the morale of those in the hospitality industry. It is unfair to let an isolated incident at one canteen or hotel tarnish the entire community. Immediate measures were taken—we condemned the MLA’s actions that same night, demanded his resignation, and ensured the canteen was reopened without delay,” he said.

Shinde further added that clear instructions had been issued to prevent such incidents from recurring and emphasised that the government stands firmly with the Bunts and other South Indian communities.

During the discussion, Shinde also held a phone conversation with former member of Parliament Gopal C Shetty and advised that the community refrain from launching a signature campaign, reassuring them that constructive steps were already being implemented. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to maintaining communal harmony and business continuity.

Harish Shetty, a senior community leader and former vice-president of AHAR, remarked after the meeting that the deputy CM had long been aware of the hospitality industry’s ground realities. He noted that Shinde had assured the delegation of quick solutions to their concerns and also informed them that Member of Parliament Milind Deora would be designated as a liaison to represent the interests of the Bunts and South Indian residents of Mumbai.

Also present at the meeting were Milind Deora, Bunts Sangha Mumbai president Praveen Bhoja Shetty, vice-president Mahesh S Shetty, former president Dr P V Shetty, AHAR president Sudhakar Shetty, secretary Vijay Shetty, former vice-president Dr Satish Shetty, and prominent hotelier and working president of Bharat Bank, Suryakant J Suvarna.

The delegation expressed gratitude to the deputy CM for his time, assurance, and proactive stance, and reaffirmed their willingness to work in cooperation with the state to ensure that the voice of the community and the hospitality industry continues to be heard and respected.