In the urban expanse of Mumbai, a tumultuous event unfolded on Thursday, resulting in the injury of nearly five law enforcement personnel amidst a barrage of hurled stones in the vicinity of Powai. Reports indicate that agitated locals, in defiance, launched a volley of stones towards the officers representing the Mumbai Police and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation during an operation aimed at curtailing encroachments within the area.

The undertaking in Powai transpired subsequent to the demolition of three illicit structures in Andheri during a parallel operation a few days preceding the incident. A contingent comprising both police and municipal authorities descended upon the slum precincts of Jai Bhim Nagar in Powai, accompanied by officers from the Mumbai Police force, earlier in the day.

As endeavors to dismantle the unlawful edifices gained momentum, dissenting voices emerged among the local populace, vehemently protesting the initiative. In the midst of escalating tensions, a group of individuals initiated a barrage of stones directed at the law enforcement and municipal representatives. In response, the police resorted to employing measured force in an attempt to restore order. Regrettably, a number of officers, engaged in safeguarding the civic personnel, sustained injuries during the altercation.

According to statements from municipal authorities, repeated notices had been issued to the proprietors of the unauthorized constructions within the confines of Jai Bhim Nagar Colony in Powai’s S Division. With no discernible compliance forthcoming despite the repeated notifications, the municipal authorities resolved to take decisive action.

In the aftermath of the fracas, a palpable sense of unease continues to linger in the locale, compounded by the injuries sustained by five members of the law enforcement contingent. The region of Hiranandani in Powai, where the enforcement operation was launched, has long been overshadowed by the presence of the Jai Bhim Nagar slum enclave.

An official representing the S Division of the municipal administration remarked, “Further updates will be forthcoming in due course.”