Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 19: Senior BJP leader Kirit Somaiya on Sunday alleged that a large number of unauthorised schools are operating across Mumbai and accused certain groups of using them for illegal land occupation, claims that are likely to trigger political controversy.

Addressing a press conference in Mulund, Somaiya said the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had identified 164 illegal schools in the city. He alleged that many of these institutions were functioning without proper permissions or official recognition.

Somaiya claimed that a significant number of such schools are located in areas including Govandi, Malad, and Kurla. He further alleged links between some of these institutions and land encroachments, stating that illegal occupation of land was followed by the establishment of such facilities.

The BJP leader also accused civic authorities of failing to act over the years, alleging corruption within the BMC that allowed such activities to continue unchecked.

In addition, Somaiya alleged that some of these institutions were being used to accommodate illegal immigrants, though no documentary evidence was presented publicly during the briefing.

He said the matter has been raised with the Maharashtra Home Department and BMC officials, and that inspections have already been conducted by the education department. According to him, authorities have assured action against the unauthorised schools in the coming days.

The remarks are expected to intensify political debate in Maharashtra, with opposition parties previously criticising the use of such allegations in public discourse.