Raj Thackeray, the president of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), launched a scathing attack on both the central and state governments on Wednesday, accusing them of turning a blind eye to environmental degradation in the state. He specifically targeted the Adani Group, alleging that the conglomerate is being favored at the expense of the environment.
Thackeray's Allegations Against the Adani Group
Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, Thackeray claimed that the Adani Group has been given undue concessions for its projects in Maharashtra, including the Dharavi redevelopment project and the Navi Mumbai airport. He alleged that the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for these projects has been compromised, leading to irreversible damage to the ecosystem.
"All the work that is done is for the favorite Adani Group," Thackeray said. "The environment is being sacrificed for corporate interests, and both the central and state governments are complicit in this."
Criticism of the State Government
Thackeray also took aim at the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, his cousin. He accused the state government of failing to enforce environmental laws and allowing rampant deforestation and pollution. "The same government that claims to be pro-environment is giving clearances to projects that will destroy our forests and rivers," he added.
Demand for Action
The MNS chief demanded a high-level inquiry into the environmental clearances granted to the Adani Group and called for the cancellation of any illegal permits. He also urged citizens to join a protest march scheduled for next week to highlight the issue of environmental degradation in Maharashtra.
"We will not stay silent while our environment is being destroyed," Thackeray said. "The people of Maharashtra must rise up and demand accountability from their leaders."
Thackeray's remarks come amid growing concerns over the environmental impact of large infrastructure projects in the state, particularly in the coastal regions of Konkan and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
