How Did the Mithi River Scam's 'Remote Control' Deceive Mumbai?
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Synopsis
The Mithi river desilting scam has captured the attention of Maharashtra's political landscape. As allegations of corruption surface, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) aims to uncover the truth behind the mismanagement of funds. Discover how the investigation unfolds and the implications for the political figures involved.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant confirms ongoing investigations into the Mithi river scam.
- The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is focusing on expenditures dating back to 2006.
- Allegations of corruption involve contractors and officials.
- Political figures are being scrutinized for their involvement.
- Justice is promised for the people of Mumbai.
Mumbai, July 10 (NationPress) Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant asserted in the state council on Thursday that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) established to probe the alleged Mithi river desilting scam has focused its investigation on works initiated only since 2019, with plans to also examine activities dating back to 2006.
In his statements, he refrained from naming specific individuals but emphasized that the SIT is set to reveal how 'remote control' manipulated the situation in Mumbai.
“Since 2006, an estimated Rs 331.73 crore has been allocated to the Mithi river desilting initiatives. Currently, we have scrutinized expenditures from 2019 to 2024. The investigation concerning the years preceding 2016 is still pending, but we require additional time for this examination,” Samant remarked.
His remarks followed a calling attention motion submitted by ruling party legislators regarding the alleged scam linked to the Mithi river desilting.
BJP MLC Rajhans Singh brought the issue to the legislative council, asserting claims of corruption in the project.
“Contractors and officials are seen cozying up for the sake of this project. There is a lack of clarity regarding the project's completion timeline and what punitive measures will be taken against those responsible,” Singh questioned.
BJP MLC Pravin Darekar insisted that significant players involved in the scam must face consequences rather than just the minor offenders. Another BJP MLC, Prasad Lad, highlighted allegations of corruption and irregularities within the tendering process, challenging the absence of evidence regarding the excavation of silt worth lakhs of metric tons from the river.
Opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab supported Darekar's assertions, advocating for an unbiased investigation for all involved.
“Investigate everyone. However, do not show leniency towards those seeking your mercy. Justice must be equitable for all,” Parab stated, pointing out that many individuals who led the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) standing committee that approved these proposals are now part of the ruling coalition.
Bhai Jagtap from Congress suggested that the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) should also be applied to the arrested contractors and BMC engineers.
Samant listed the accused, mentioning that one Jai Joshi is currently out on bail while the alleged mastermind, Ketan Kadam, who owns nightclubs and various properties, is in judicial custody.
“Ketan Kadam has a partner named Santino Morea. We want to reassure the people of Mumbai that no guilty party will evade justice. The SIT will unveil how the remote control deceived Mumbai,” Samant concluded.
Morea is the sibling of actor Dino Morea, who has connections with Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray. The opposition is targeting the Thackeray family, believed to have influenced BMC operations from afar for decades.
Point of View
It is vital to approach the Mithi river desilting scandal with a focus on transparency and accountability. The allegations of corruption reflect systemic issues in governance that require thorough investigation. As the SIT moves forward, the emphasis should be on ensuring justice without bias, holding all parties responsible, and restoring public trust in the authorities.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mithi river scam?
The Mithi river scam involves allegations of corruption related to the desilting project in Mumbai, with significant funds reportedly mismanaged.
Who is investigating the Mithi river scam?
The investigation is being conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Maharashtra government.
What time period is being investigated?
The SIT is currently examining works from 2019 to 2024, and will also investigate activities dating back to 2006.
What are the allegations against the contractors?
Contractors are accused of colluding with officials and misappropriating funds designated for the desilting project.
What actions are being taken against those involved?
The SIT is committed to exposing all individuals implicated in the scam, ensuring justice is served.
