• Illegal Blasts Rock Matheran Eco-Sensitive Zone- Who Benefits?
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
A shocking environmental crime has come to light in the eco-sensitive Matheran region near Panvel, where two illegal mega blasts-allegedly involving RDX, dynamites, and detonators-have caused massive destruction. The blasts occurred atop a mountain near Salman Khan’s Arpita Farms and the properties of NRI Anita Ketan Kakkad, raising serious questions about who orchestrated them and why.
The first blast (2015-16) left a 200-foot-deep crater- the size of a cricket stadium. The second blast targeted Kundi Dam, a vital water source for local wildlife, including tigers. This calculated destruction has been linked to powerful entities, with allegations pointing toward Salman Khan’s family and a nexus with the BJP-led government.
Locals and Adivasis claim that Panvel RFO Gyaneshwar Sapurda Sonawane and Panvel Police were complicit, acting as private enforcers for influential figures. The destruction of the Kundi Dam and waterfall-a natural habitat and tourist attraction- was allegedly part of a larger conspiracy to benefit select individuals.
Despite blatant violations of environmental laws and court orders, bureaucrats and officials remain silent, allegedly fearing repercussions from leaders in Mantralaya, Delhi, and Bollywood elites. Sprouts News has uncovered how government agencies are turning a blind eye, allowing rampant corruption, ecological destruction, and suppression of fundamental rights.
This is just the beginning. Sprouts News will continue to expose the “Panvel Files”-a series of environmental crimes and political cover-ups. The question remains: Will the government act, or is this just another drama of fake investigations while the real culprits roam free?
Salman Khan Accused of Land Grabbing and Blocking Temple Access
In an exclusive report, Sprouts News has uncovered allegations against actor Salman Khan regarding illegal land acquisition and obstruction of a temple pathway in Panvel. This is the first time such allegations have been exposed in the media.
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• Allegations of Illegal Land Acquisition
Khan has been accused of illegally grabbing several acres of forest land in collusion with corrupt officials. Reports suggest that he has constructed 19 bungalows and three horse stables on the land, violating eco-sensitive zone regulations.
• Blocking Access to Ganesh Temple
Khan has allegedly set up an unauthorized gate, blocking access to a Ganesh Temple built by his neighbor, Ketan Kakkad.
• Harassment of Neighboring Landowner
Kakkad, an NRI from the USA, owns 2.5 acres of land above Khan’s “Arpita Farms” and claims that Khan has been preventing him from constructing a bungalow. He also alleges that Khan has used his influence to stop the Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB) from providing power to his house and the temple, despite having an official electricity connection.
• Government Inaction Despite Complaints
Despite multiple complaints to the forest department and top political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, no action has been taken against Khan. A 2017 notice from the forest department to remove unauthorized structures on his property remains unaddressed.
• Legal Action and Lawyer’s Statement
Kakkad’s lawyer, Senior Advocate Abha Singh, has accused Khan of using his power and influence to suppress the Kakkad family, depriving them of basic rights such as access to roads, electricity, and water.
• Salim Khan’s Response
Salman’s father, Salim Khan, dismissed the accusations, stating, “Right now, it’s an allegation. We will speak at the right time.”
• Violations of Eco-Sensitive Zone Laws
Khan’s Panvel farmhouse falls within an eco-sensitive zone where construction is restricted. However, Sprouts News has revealed that nine new illegal constructions have been reported on the land, violating environmental laws.