Bombay High Court halts Bandra football ground conversion for now: ‘Have a bigger problem’

The Bombay High Court recently halted the city's government's plans to convert Neville D'Souza Football Ground in Bandra Reclamation into an exhibition or convention center. The court's decision came just a day after the Mumbai Football Association (MFA) raised concerns about the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai's (MCGM) proposal to transform the ground.

During the hearing, the court questioned the purpose of converting the football ground, asking, "Where are the people going to play football?" The court also noted the oral assurance given by the MCGM that the ground would not be converted.

A bench consisting of Acting Chief Justice Ravindra V Ghuge and Justice Gautam A Ankhad expressed concern over the loss of outdoor sports spaces for future generations, stating they have a "bigger problem." They emphasized the importance of upholding the "majesty of law" and warned that the court will take action if elected officials or authorities undermine its authority.

The MCGM defended its decision, stating that the general body only approved the notice to seek suggestions and objections from stakeholders. The civic body assured that the change in reservations would only happen after the state government passes an order. The court asked if the MCGM could put the decision on hold until the hearing, but the MCGM's representative said it was not possible under the Municipal Act.