Shelar Hits Back At Shiv Sena Over Bandra Ground Row

Mumbai, August 21, 2026: The controversy over the proposed redevelopment of Neville D’Souza football ground in Bandra has intensified, with BJP MLA and minister Ashish Shelar slamming the Shiv Sena (UBT) for distorting facts about the land’s ownership and intended use.

Shelar questioned the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s allegation that the plot was being sold, and asked who had officially named it after former Indian footballer Neville D’Souza. He asserted that the facts would eventually come out, but said he would hold his fire for now as the issue is before the High Court.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) has been opposing any move that could alter the character or use of Neville D’Souza ground, while the BJP maintains that the plot is not being sold. Shelar said that development and sale were two different issues, and that the BJP’s stand had always been to protect and develop open spaces, not sell them or turn them into clubhouses.

Shelar also hit back at the Shiv Sena (UBT) over its open-space campaign, saying that the opposition should first put its own house in order and examine open-space issues in areas under its influence. He suggested that a “Tirana yatra” by the UBT should start from Prabhodankar Thackeray ground in Goregaon.

The Dahisar sports complex was also raised by Shelar, who asked who owned the land, who was occupying it, and who had the legal rights over the property. The issue of open spaces has been a contentious one in Mumbai, with many residents opposing the sale or redevelopment of public spaces.

The Bombay High Court has restrained the BMC from changing the reservation of Neville D’Souza football ground, and the issue is currently before the court. Shelar said that he would speak out and place the truth before the public at the appropriate time.

The controversy over the Neville D’Souza ground has highlighted the importance of protecting public spaces in Mumbai. The city has seen many instances of public spaces being sold or redeveloped, leading to opposition from residents and activists.

In the context of Mumbai’s rapidly changing landscape, the issue of open spaces has become increasingly important. The city’s residents are keen to preserve public spaces, and the controversy over the Neville D’Souza ground has brought this issue to the forefront.

The outcome of the court battle will be closely watched, as it will have implications for the future of public spaces in Mumbai. For now, the issue remains a contentious one, with the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the BJP locked in a battle over the fate of the Neville D’Souza ground.

The significance of this issue cannot be overstated, as it highlights the ongoing struggle to preserve public spaces in Mumbai. As the city continues to grow and develop, it is essential that public spaces are protected and preserved for future generations.

In conclusion, the controversy over the Neville D’Souza ground has brought attention to the importance of protecting public spaces in Mumbai. The issue is complex, with many different stakeholders involved, and the outcome of the court battle will be closely watched. Ultimately, the fate of the Neville D’Souza ground will have implications for the future of public spaces in Mumbai, and it is essential that the city’s residents and leaders work together to preserve these vital spaces.