In a significant press conference held today, MLA Manda Mhatre of Belapur Assembly Constituency addressed the ongoing challenges faced by the Koli community in Koliwadas in Navi Mumbai, highlighting the need for permanent housing solutions. The Koli community, which has a long-standing history, continues to face the issue of redevelopment, with many of their homes in Koliwadas being demolished as part of redevelopment plans by Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) and CIDCO.

MLA Mhatre, deeply concerned about the welfare of the Koli brothers, emphasized that while some huts had been granted official status till 2011, the majority of Koli homes in these areas lack permanency. This lack of security has caused distress among the families, especially with the growing families. She further pointed out that the community's rich history, tied to the legacy of the Koliraja of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's army, is not being given the respect and consideration it deserves in the redevelopment process.

To address these concerns, MLA Mhatre wrote a letter on 9th December 2024 to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, urging for a meeting between the Koli brothers and the concerned officials to find a permanent solution. MLA Manda Mhatre called for a focused discussion on how to resolve the issue and ensure that the Koli brothers are given proper justice.

In her press conference, MLA Mhatre took a strong stand, expressing her commitment to finding a way to secure rightful homes for the Koli community. She stressed the importance of simplifying complex regulations and ensuring that the Koli brothers are not displaced from their traditional homes.