After Narendra Mehta’s announcement, Congress strikes back, “Why are 7/11 and Narendra Mehta’s name in every land dispute?” — Rakesh Purohit

Mira Bhayandar, dated 16 September (City News Mumbai)

After BJP legislator Narendra Mehta sent a letter to the Police Commissioner demanding that the landowner return the land and that the FIR registered in the case be withdrawn, and also demanded that the municipal corporation cancel the CC and refund the amount, the political turmoil over this issue has now intensified.

Congress district president Rakesh Purohit convened a press conference and launched a sharp attack on Narendra Mehta and 7/11. Purohit questioned, “Whenever a land dispute arises in Mira Bhayandar city, why do the names of 7/11 and Narendra Mehta appear?”

Purohit claimed, “People from his own party are exposing him.” He said that Mira Bhayandar city needs to be freed from the alleged occupation by 7/11 and that the police should conduct an impartial investigation of the entire case to bring the truth to light.

He also cited the alleged statement of Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bavanakule in the Assembly. According to available reports, in a case involving tribal land, Bavanakule spoke of irregularities in the investigation and mentioned action to return the land to tribal families.

The Congress also raised the question that Narendra Mehta describes himself as merely a shareholder of the company, but not being on the board of directors does not mean he has no connection with the company. Purohit said that this entire relationship and the land matters should be investigated.

Rakesh Purohit further demanded that the land cases linked to 7/11 be investigated and the real situation presented to the public. He said that it is essential that the truth be clear in this matter.

However, the allegations made by the Congress should be regarded merely as allegations; the response of the concerned parties, once it emerges, should also be included in the news.