SC Slams BMC: Commissioner's Salary Withheld Over Borivali Encroachments
The Supreme Court penalizes BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide and fines the BMC for failing to clear land for a Borivali bus station.
In a stern move against administrative negligence, the Supreme Court has pulled up Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) commissioner Ashwini Bhide for failing to execute orders regarding the removal of encroachments from land reserved for a proposed bus station project in Borivali. The court's frustration peaked on Tuesday, leading to an unprecedented decision to withhold the commissioner's salary for the month of November.
Contempt Notice and Heavy Penalties
A bench consisting of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohan expressed strong displeasure over the BMC's lack of compliance. The court has issued a show-cause notice to Ashwini Bhide, demanding an explanation as to why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against her for the failure to implement the court's directives.
The judicial crackdown didn't stop at the commissioner's paycheck. The Supreme Court imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on the BMC, noting that the civic body had attempted to evade the implementation of the court's orders.
Extension Request Denied
During the proceedings, the BMC sought an additional 30-day window to clear the encroachments. However, the bench rejected this request, signaling that the time for delays had ended and immediate action was required.
Swift Action Following Court's Wrath
The legal pressure triggered an immediate response from the civic body. On Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the BMC launched a massive drive to clear the plot reserved for the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus station on Swami Vivekananda Road in Borivali East.
The operation targeted a plot of approximately 3,400 square meters, specifically identified under S. No. 7 B, CTS No. 15, Town Planning Scheme-2. The drive resulted in the demolition of 27 commercial structures that had illegally occupied the land.
Details of the Demolition Drive
The removal process was a coordinated effort involving the R Central Ward of the Municipal Corporation. The scale of the operation included:
- Manpower: A total of 70 personnel, including engineers and staff members.
- Machinery: Two JCBs and four dumpers were utilized to clear the debris and structures.
- Security: Police security was deployed throughout the operation to ensure order and prevent interference.