Don't politicise Mumbai's development issue: Fadnavis

In a veiled attack on Shiv Sena for criticising his suggestion of a high-level committee for Mumbai's development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today said politicising the issue would amount to playing with the city's development cause.
"I think this is just a political controversy ignited by some. Politics should not be played when we talk of Mumbai's development. Whoever makes this issue political, is playing with the cause of Mumbai's development," Fadnavis told reporters here.
An editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' today cautioned Fadnavis against suggesting a high-level committee for Mumbai's development.
"...We have to ensure that the remedy does not turn out to be more dangerous than the illness itself. The Shiv Sena believes that Mumbai will not be separated from Maharashtra and the control of the city will only lie with the state government," the Sena said.

Fadnavis said his intention was to ensure that the Centre gives its approval for development projects without making files bite dust for years.
"Whenever we start a new project, it needs to be first sent to Delhi as various laws related to CRZ, environment and eco-sensitivity prevent the state from approving projects. We have seen that there are projects lying with the Centre for 30 years, awaiting an approval.
"That is why I requested (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi ji, that if there is a committee under his leadership, bureaucrats will ensure speedy approvals of files," Fadnavis said.
"Why should there be a controversy on this? If I am requesting the PM to fast track Mumbai's projects, there is no scope for a controversy. I have not undermined any agency or asked to form a committee over and above any present agency," the Chief Minister added.