Ghatkopar building collapse rocks Maharashtra assembly

A day after the fatal building collapse in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area, the ongoing monsoon session of the Maharashtra legislature witnessed uproar with the Opposition demanding stern action. Replying to the discussion on the adjournment motion, CM Devendra Fadnavis announced Rs 2 lakh to the next of the kin of 17 people who died in Tuesday's building collapse.

Immediately as the house convened, Opposition demanded adjournment motion on Ghatkopar building collapse that led to ruckus. Following pandemonium, the assembly was adjourned for 10 minutes. Before the discussion began on the mishap, the House was adjourned thrice.

"The pillar and beam of the building were altered leading to the tragedy. Strict action should be taken so that no such incident takes place in future," alleged NCP leader and former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.

Pointing at the role of Sunil Shitap, reportedly associated with the Shiv Sena, Pawar said, "The accused is associated with Shiv Sena. How did he get permission for renovation? Locals had complained, but it wasn't considered. There was political pressure put up by Shitap."

Even the BJP cornered Shiv Sena over Shitap.

Citing a report in a local newspaper, BJP MLA Raj Purohit alleged that Shitap had threatened the officials and residents at gunpoint.

"Ghatkoper building culprit Sitap had allegedly shown revolver to BMC officer to intimidate them while alteration works were going on in his nursing home," Purohit alleged, demanding action.

The Shiv Sena, however, was non-committal in taking action against the accused.

Shiv Sena leader Sunil Prabhu said, "Our party will take action if Shitap is found guilty. But before that a thorough inquiry should take place. Whoever is guilty shall be severely dealt with regardless of the political party."

Replying to the discussion, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced compensation for the deceased.

"There was no complaint from anyone regarding the construction work on ground floor of the building. The photographs of the accident spot indicate that the beam and column of the building were fiddled with leading to the building collapse."

Chief Minister also assured the house that the collapsed structure would be rebuilt at the earliest. Fadnavis announced that the state government and the BMC would help in the redevelopment of the building. Assuring action Fadnavis said, "Those who are found guilty after the inquiry would be severely dealt with considering it as a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder."

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