‘Stop Unauthorised Fundraising Under The Guise Of Drought Relief’: Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Demands Action In Mira-Bhayandar

October 5, 2026, brought a stern request from Maharashtra's Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik to halt unauthorized fundraising operations masquerading as drought relief efforts in Mira-Bhayandar. The Minister issued a formal letter to the District Collector and the Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar Police Commissioner, demanding immediate verification of fundraising permits for those collecting funds under the guise of drought relief.

Sarnaik emphasized that authorities must cease any unauthorized fund collection activities and take legal action against those defrauding the public. The Mira-Bhayandar BJP unit has initiated a Relief Fund campaign, raising funds worth Rs 1 crore through the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation. Additionally, BJP MLA Narendra Mehta pledged to raise approximately Rs 6 crore from the city for the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, resulting in a widespread fund collection drive in the region.

However, Sarnaik cautioned the public against donating to unauthorized entities and urged them to contribute solely through the Maharashtra Government's Chief Minister Relief Fund or other government-sanctioned channels. To ensure that aid reaches drought-stricken farmers directly, the Minister advised donors to verify the official authorization of individuals collecting funds by checking for district administration permits and receipts.