BMC cannot take over YMCA gymnasium, playground in Mumbai Central: Bombay HC stays move

On Wednesday, the Bombay High Court temporarily blocked the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) plan to seize control of the YMCA's gymnasium and Willingdon playground, now called Abdul Rehman Sufi Maidan or Jhoola Maidan, located at Agripada in Mumbai Central. The move was halted after the YMCA, represented by Joel Carlos, contested the notice from the BMC, claiming improper maintenance of the facilities and threatening to take over the properties by August 12.

During the hearing, the YMCA argued that the BMC had no authority to take over the gymnasium and akhada (gym), which were built and owned by the association following proper approvals, including a Commencement Certificate from the civic body. Carlos also pointed out that the association had been paying rent to the BMC for years, with the ground being their possession since 1928, making them a protected tenant and ineligible for eviction.

The plea dismissed the BMC's claim about the gymnasium's condition as "false," stating that the charges were made without a site visit, and alleged that the BMC did not provide the YMCA with a chance to present its case before the notice was issued. When the BMC requested additional time to respond, the High Court granted an interim relief to the petitioner and placed a temporary hold on the BMC's attempt to take over the properties.