In a significant move ahead of assembly elections, Shiv Sena’s Anil Parab has tabled a private member’s bill advocating a 50% reservation for Marathi-speaking residents in new housing projects across Mumbai. The proposal, currently awaiting approval, includes stringent penalties for developers failing to comply. This initiative reflects growing concerns over alleged discrimination against Marathi speakers in housing practices, citing instances where housing access was denied based on dietary preferences or religion.
BulletsIn
- Shiv Sena’s MLC Anil Parab introduced a private member’s bill proposing 50% reservation for Marathi-speaking residents in new Mumbai housing projects.
- The bill seeks penalties up to Rs 10 lakh and/or six months’ jail for non-compliant developers.
- Shiv Sena holds 9 seats in the 78-member legislative council and 15 seats in the 288-member assembly.
- The proposed bill may be presented during the upcoming monsoon session.
- Instances of housing denial based on food habits or religion prompted the bill’s introduction.
- Legal experts doubt the bill’s viability, citing conflicts with constitutional equality principles.
- Former Bombay High Court Chief Justice R. D. Dhanuka stated such quotas are impermissible by law.
- Mumbai housing societies attempting religious or community-based membership restrictions have faced legal challenges.
- Critics argue the bill could face judicial scrutiny for infringing on fundamental rights.
- The bill highlights concerns about the dwindling presence of Marathi speakers in Mumbai.
