Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 21: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam has stirred controversy by alleging that Muslim builders are rejecting Hindu applicants in Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) projects in Mumbai, calling it ‘Housing Jihad.’

Nirupam has written to Maharashtra housing minister and deputy CM Eknath Shinde, urging an investigation into the matter. He claimed that such activities are rampant in western suburbs, as well as areas like Govandi, Mankhurd, Kurla, Saki Naka, and Bandra.

As per Nirupam, “Muslim builders are ensuring only Muslims get homes in SRA projects, making Hindus a minority in several areas.” He further alleged that around 10% of Mumbai’s 600 ongoing SRA projects are handled by Muslim builders, all of whom are involved in this alleged practice. He also claimed that Bangladeshi nationals are being given permanent housing through an illegal campaign.

However, AIMIM national spokesperson Waris Pathan dismissed Nirupam’s claims as “complete nonsense.” He said, “First, they alleged love jihad, then land jihad, and now housing jihad. Do they even understand the meaning of jihad?”

This is not the first time Nirupam has sparked controversy. Last month, he questioned actor Saif Ali Khan’s rapid recovery after surgery, demanding clarity from Lilavati Hospital on his treatment.