Pune: Shiv Sena’s Rupali Alhat Leads Hunger Strike Over Controversial Land Use in Moshi
Moshi, 30th November 2023: A controversy has emerged in Moshi Chikhali as Reservation No. PG 1/137, originally designated for a sports ground on a one-hectare plot, is being utilized for horse riding, sparking dissatisfaction and protest. Rupali Alhat, Shiv Sena’s (UBT group) Deputy City Organizer, has initiated a hunger strike at Shriram Chowk in Chikhali-Moshi to voice opposition against this allocation.
The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) had initially reserved vacant plots for essential community facilities such as hospitals, schools, parks, and sports grounds. However, the one-hectare plot in Moshi, reserved for a sports ground (Reservation No. PG 1/137), has deviated from its intended purpose and is now being utilized for private horse riding ventures.
This decision has raised concerns, particularly regarding the absence of a playground for children in the area. Local citizens are questioning how PCMC plans to address this essential need. She had previously held a press conference urging the commissioner to cancel the administration’s decision to allow horse riding on the sports ground. With the commissioner’s lack of positive response, Rupali commenced a hunger strike on Tuesday (29th November), garnering support from local citizens, especially women.
The contentious land, acquired from the original farmer at a discounted rate with the initial purpose of developing a sports ground, has now been leased to a private businessman for horse riding activities. Local citizens, including children, are required to pay fees ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 rupees per person for access to horse riding services.
Alhat expresses regret over the PCMC’s decision, asserting that the support given to commercial interests at the expense of local citizens will exacerbate financial difficulties for the community.
